Synthesis, Characterization, and Consolidation of Cr 2 (C,N) Solid Solution Powders

Single‐phase Cr 2 (C,N) powders, which are mainly composed of large worm‐like particles with the diameter of 1–3 μm, have been successfully synthesized by carbothermal reduction nitridation ( CRN ) method at 1200°C for 1 h in N 2 atmosphere for the first time. The phase evolution and morphology were investigated using XRD , TG ‐ DSC , SEM , and TEM techniques. The reactions during the synthesis process were proposed and analyzed. The surface of Cr 2 (C,N) determined by XPS is mainly composed of four elements, Cr, N, C, and O. Furthermore, the attempts to consolidate Cr 2 (C,N) powders were carried out using spark plasma sintering ( SPS ), and the fully densified bulk ceramics were obtained at 1200°C. The effect of sintering temperature on phase composition and mechanical properties were also discussed.