Si-C-Ti ceramics were synthesized by reactive pyrolysis of polycarbosilane (PCs) precursor filled with metal Ti powder. Pyrolysis of mixture with atomic ratio of Ti:Si through 3:1-3:2 was carried out in argon atmosphere at given temperature up to 1500 degrees C. The metal-precursor reactions, and phase evolution were studied using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy with EDX. The Ti3SiC2 phase was obtained firstly from reaction of PCs and Ti. Ti3SiC2 formation starts at 1300 degrees C and its amount increases significantly in a narrow temperature range between 1400 degrees C and 1500 degrees C. In addition, addition of CaF2 can promote the formation of Ti3SiC2 phase. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.