Synthesis of well‐dispersed β‐Si 3 N 4 with equiaxed structures using carbothermal reduction–nitridation method

Abstract Well‐dispersed β‐Si 3 N 4 powders with a novel equiaxed structure and eminent crystal integrity were prepared by carbothermal reduction–nitridation ( CRN ) strategy with the assistance of CaF 2 additive. The growth mechanism of Si 3 N 4 particles in the CRN process was elucidated. It is proposed that the liquid phase formed by SiO 2 and CaF 2 additive is crucial to the formation of equiaxed β‐Si 3 N 4 , and with an appropriate content of CaF 2 , Si 3 N 4 powders with pure β phase, superior dispersity and crystal integrity can be obtained.