Patent ID: 6495115
Filing Date: 2002-12-17
Classification: C01B,C01P

Abstract:
A method to produce a transition metal carbide comprising:a) heating a transition metal oxide in the presence of carbon or hydrogen such that the transition metal oxide is partially carburized or at least partially reduced to form a precursor mixture, b) forming an admixture by mixing the precursor mixture with a sufficient amount of particulate carbon to carburize the precursor mixture to the transition metal carbide and c) heating the admixture in the presence of an inert or reducing gas at a temperature for a time sufficient to convert the admixture to the transition metal carbide, the admixture being heated in the presence of a means to enhance transfer of heat into the admixture wherein the means is a body of graphite or carbon-carbon composite and extends into and contacts at least a portion of the admixture.