Synthesis of the new MAX phase Zr₂AlC

This study reports on the first experimental evidence of the existence of the Zr₂AlC MAX phase, synthesised by means of reactive hot pressing of a ZrH₂, Al and C powder mixture. The crystal structure of thiscompound was investigated by X-ray and neutron diffraction. The lattice parameters were determinedand confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The effect of varying the synthesistemperature was investigated, indicating a relatively narrow temperature window for the synthesis of Zr₂AlC. ZrC was always present as a secondary phase by hot pressing in the 1475–1575ºC range.