Mechanism of the formation of β–Sialon by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis

β–Sialon has been prepared by SHS (Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis) with Si, Al, Al₂O₃, and β–Si₃N₄ under high nitrogen pressure. Rod-like crystals of b–Sialon with an aspect ratio of 4–15 and whiskers with various aspect ratios were obtained in the process. Considering the morphologies of the products, it is concluded that VLS (vapor-liquid-solid) is the predominant mechanism of the formation of rod-like crystals and whiskers.