Synthesis of an intermetallic compound based on Ti_5Si₃ by an explosive compaction of elemental powders was studied. The main experimental variable was the detonation velocity, and it was found that the relative density of the compacted compound increased with the detonation velocity. To enhance the density of the compound further, however, it was deemed necessary to consider variables such as the can, powder and the backup tube. From an X-ray diffraction analysis of the explosion-compacted compound it was confirmed that formation of the Ti_5Si₃ phase was complete. Apart from the needs to further improve the density and crack resistance of the compacted alloy, the present work indicates that the explosion synthesis has a potential to be developed as a consolidation method for Ti_5Si₃ intermetallic compounds.