SiC synthesis using natural Mg-silicates

The silicon carbide powders are prepared by carbothermal reduction of domestic mineral resources (white and brown sepiolite), at relatively low temperatures (1200 - 1600oC). Carbothermal reduction process is greatly influenced by chemical composition of sepiolites and type of carbon used. Obtained SiC powders consist of fine ?-SiC particles and did not retain the fibrous morphology of sepiolites. Catalytical influence of Fe is attributed to formation of iron-silicide and its potentionaly important role in removal of Mg-species, i.e. reduction of Mg2SiO4 and MgO into Mg(g).