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Structural Properties of β-FeSi2 Bulk Crystal Grown by Horizontal Gradient Freeze Method
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Abstract
We report on the synthesis of β-FeSi2 bulk materials using Horizontal Gradient Freeze (HGF) method. Chunk and powder FeSi2 or high-purity Fe (4N) and Si (9N) were used as starting materials. Three values (1:2, 2:5 and 1:3) of the Fe:Si ratio were selected in the very narrow α and β ranges of the equilibrium phase diagram. Samples were melted between 1300°C and 1500°C in high purity graphite crucibles covered with boron nitride. After cooling, the samples were kept at 800°C and 900°C during 66 to 100 hours, leading to transformation from α to β phase. Cooling rate and annealing time were taken as the two main parameters to optimize the growth conditions. Principal structural characterization was made by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Correlation with stoichiometry was achieved using the results of Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS) and Electron Probe X-Ray Micro Analysis (EPXMA). The samples obtained from 1:2 ratio exhibited mainly β phase while the 2:5 ratio specimens revealed almost α phase structure. The samples prepared with 1:3 ratio was found as a mixture of α and β phases under Si-rich conditions.
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- Copyright © Materials Research Society 1996
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