Synthesis and thermal performance of polymer precursor for ZrC ceramic

A novel ZrC preceramic precursor (PZC) was compounded via liquid phase chemical reaction without any organic solvent choosing ZrOCl2.8H2O and polyvinyl alcohol as Zr source and C source, respectively. The composition and structure of ZrC precursor were analysed through XRD, FT-IR, XPS and SEM. The results showed both Zr-O-C bonds and Zr-O bonds existed in the precursor. The results observed by SEM showed that many irregular particles were generated, whose particle sizes were mainly in the range of 0.2-3 mu m. In addition, particle aggregation can be easily observed. Besides, the thermal property and pyrolysis process of PZC were studied. In accordance with XRD, the initial temperature of the earliest detection of ZrC in pyrolysis products of PZC was 1300 degrees C. Monoclinic ZrO2 and tetragonal ZrO2 can be observed at this temperature as well. Ulteriorly, when the pyrolysis temperature was risen up to 1500 degrees C, only ZrC ceramic can be found.

Automated summary

A novel ZrC preceramic precursor (PZC) was prepared via liquid phase chemical reaction without organic solvent, showing the presence of Zr-O-C bonds and Zr-O bonds. SEM analysis revealed particle aggregation and formation of ZrC ceramic during pyrolysis process.