Abstract Scope |
Self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) is a spontaneous, irreversible, combustion process that requires close to no energy to produce complex materials at high temperature through self-sustained reactions. Little is known about the mechanistic nature of this versatile process, which limits its controllability and applicability. Chevrel Phase (CP) compounds (MxMo6S8-CPs) constitute a class of multifunctional, ceramic, designer materials targeted for catalysis, battery electrodes, quantum computing, and other applications. In this research, the successful and rapid processing of the sulfide Chevrel compound Cu4Mo6S8 via SHS is demonstrated, and a mechanism is provided. Thermochemical measurements identify an atypical behavior for this SHS process where the overall reaction temperature does not surpass that of the materials with the lowest melting point. This result is attributed to intercalation assisted massive phase transformation facilitated by the use of a MoS2 precursor. Further work to synthesize the Chevrel phase using other cations is continuing. |