Synthesis and growth mechanisms of ZrC whiskers fabricated by a VLS process

Abstract The mechanisms of nano-sized ZrC whisker formation by a vapor–liquid–solid process are investigated, which produces a very high purity, single crystal whisker. Rectangular ZrC whiskers with a cross-sectional diameter of 100–200 nm and lengths up to tens of microns are formed under the catalytic effect of nickel. The ZrC whiskers are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. ZrC whiskers can be used as a potential reinforcing and strengthening phase for ceramic composites.