This article will provide information about chemical processes which rely on the heat evolved during reaction to synthesize and, in some cases, to simultaneously density single-phase or composite ceramic materials. Although the basic concept underlying these processes is simple, the high temperature reactions are complex and require careful study with individual systems before their potential as fabrication processes can be fully realized.

Many reactions between solids involving elements and/or compounds, or between solids and gases are highly exothermic. Listed in Table I is a selected group of typical chemical reactions accompanied by their calculated adiabatic temperatures. As a general rule any reaction with an adiabatic temperature ~2000°C or over can be reacted under combustion conditions. For example, suppose that a cold-pressed cylindrical compact of titanium and boron powder (Eq. 1) is ignited at the top surface with a convenient source of heat such as a laser. From the igniting surface a combustion wave rapidly self-propagates down the compact, transforming the reactants into the TiB2 product. Figure 1 shows a Ti and C powder compact where the combustion wave has progressed about halfway down the compact.