Use of two-color array pyrometry for characterization of combustion synthesis waves

A two-color array pyrometer was used to investigate morphological developments on the surface of materials undergoing self-propagating high-temperature reactions. Time sequences of temperature spatial profiles during wave propagation were found to be complex in their nature and dynamics. They contain features that are interpreted in terms of morphological changes during the process. These features include formation of cracks or voids, expansion of the sample, and formation of droplets of metals on the surface. The use of the array pyrometer for determination of the activation energy of the combustion reaction between Zr and NiO is reported.