Microstructures and mechanical properties of 3D 4-directional, Cf/ZrC-SiC composites using ZrC precursor and polycarbosilane

Three-dimensional 4-directional C-f/ZrC-SiC composites were successfully fabricated by polymer infiltration and pyrolysis combined with ZrC precursor impregnation. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites were studied. The composite with PyC/SiC interphase had a bulk density of 2.14 g/cm(3), an open porosity of 10%, and a bending stress of 474MPa, and exhibited a non-brittle failure behavior due to propagation and deflection of cracks, and fracture and pullout of fibers. Their high-temperature oxidation resistance and anti-ablation properties were evaluated using a muffle furnace and plasma wind tunnel test. Results show that the composites have good mechanical and excellent ablative properties. (C) 2013 Elsevier All rights reserved.