Patent ID: 7648675
Filing Date: 2010-01-19
Classification: C22C

Abstract:
1. A method of sintering a first transition metal carbide/second transition metal matrix composite body at ambient pressures, comprising in combination: a) blending a first predetermined amount of X oxide powder with a second predetermined amount of QC powder; b) mixing the blended powders to yield a substantially homogeneous powder mixture; c) forming a portion of the substantially homogeneous powder mixture into a green body; d) heating the green body to a first elevated temperature to form a partially sintered body which has reacted to form at least some XC and Q phases; and e) heating the partially sintered body to a second elevated temperature in an inert atmosphere to yield a substantially dense sintered body; wherein the substantially dense sintered body is substantially XC dispersed in a substantially Q matrix; wherein X is a first transition metal; and wherein Q is a second transition metal different from X.