In situ single‐step reduction and silicidation of MoO ₃ to form MoSi ₂

Abstract

Abstract Nanocrystalline molybdenum disilicide (MoSi 2 ) is synthesized in a specially designed autoclave at 900°C. The XRD results revealed that the formation of MoSi 2 is favorable with the blend of MoO 3 , Si, and Mg powders. The HR ‐ TEM and SAED patterns confirm the formation of MoSi 2 phase. The structural parameters (crystallite size, strain, stress, and deformation energy density) are calculated using the Williamson‐Hall (W‐H) analysis. The formation mechanism involved in the synthesis of MoSi 2 is proposed. The nonisothermal oxidation kinetics (~1200°C) of MoSi 2 phase is examined through the thermal analysis techniques. The activation energy is determined by the Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunsose isoconversional kinetic model. Finally, the reaction mechanism involved during the oxidation of MoSi 2 phase is identified using the integral master‐plots method.