Using graphene networks to build SiC(rGO, Gx) bulk ceramics from polymeric precursors

Unique properties of graphene open new opportunities for preparing composites with favorable functional capabilities. Herein, an ingenious synthesis route via re-pyrolysis process of ball-milling-induced SiC(rGO, Gx)(p) fillers/polycarbosilane-vinyltriethoxysilane-graphene oxide (PCS-VTES-GO, PVG) precursors blends is proposed to obtain structural-functional integrated SiC(rGO, Gx) bulk polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs). The introduction of SiC(rGO, Gx)(p) provides favorable moldability, ceramic yield and linear shrinkage. Attractively, graphene networks with more free-moving electrical-charge carriers and wider phonon-channel prominently enhance electrical and thermal conductivities of products. Particularly, SiC(rGO, G(20%)) bulk PDCs generated at 1300 degrees C own satisfactory ceramic yield (90.74%), linear shrinkage (5.00%), fracture toughness (2.07 MPa m(1/2)), bending strength (35.37 MPa), electrical conductivity (25.72 S cm(-1)) and thermal conductivity (6.72 W m(-1).K-1), realizing outstanding values to the best of our knowledge. This fabrication method favors mass production of larger-sized PDCs and possess potential emerging uses.

Automated summary

This study successfully prepared SiC(rGO, Gx) bulk polymer-derived ceramics using a unique synthesis route, exhibiting excellent performance with high electrical and thermal conductivities. The method is conducive to mass production and potential emerging uses.