Production of Ni$_x$Al$_y$/Al$_2$O$_3$

The reduction of nickel oxide by aluminum and synthesis of nickel aluminides were studied by IR spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (including synchrotron radiation), and electron microscopy. Composites consisting of nickel aluminides and aluminum oxide were produced by varying the composition of the initial mixture (nickel oxide+ aluminum + nickel) and by a combination of mechanical activation and self-propagating high-temperature synthesis.