Properties of Cf/SiC-ZrB2-TaxCy composite produced by reactive hot pressing and polymer impregnation pyrolysis (RHP/PIP)

C-f/SiC-ZrB2-TaxCy composite was synthesized by reactive hot pressing (RHP) of C-f cloth, polycarbosilane (PCS), ZrB2, and Ta powders at 4 MPa and 1200 degrees C. PIP cycle influenced sintering process by increasing density of the composite from 2.34 to 2.82 g/cc. Residual carbon produced during the PIP cycles at 1200 degrees C was utilized to yield TaxCy by the addition of Ta. SEM images illustrate that by increasing the number of PIP cycles, SiC derived from the PCS cover the C-f fibre, micropores, and cracks. PIP cycles and TaxCy phase improved flexural strength of the composite from 20 to 114 MPa. Mass and linear ablation resistance studies at 1600-2000 degrees C exhibited that oxide formation at the outer surface caused a barrier; further, no oxidation underneath the composite was observed. SEM images display that at 2000 degrees C, SiO2 and TaxOy were molten and sealed the pores. Hence, ablation resistance was enhanced by blocking the penetration in high-temperature flame.