Reactive sintering of 2.5D Cf/ZrC-SiC ceramic matrix composite

In this work, a novel approach to rapidly densify ceramic matrix composite was developed by combining ceramic and composite processing. Cf preform, which was injected and impregnated with slurries containing ZrSi2 and phenolic resin, was consolidated by spark plasma sintering at 1550 degrees C/50 MPa for 5 min. During densification, ZrSi2 and resin carbon converted to ZrC and SiC, newly formed particles were incorporated in the preform preferentially in the fiber randomly orientated layer. Although all the composites exhibit non-brittle fracture manner, their flexural strength and toughness only reach maximum in the sample with a carbon to ZrSi2 molar ratio of 3:1.

Automated summary

A novel approach to rapidly densify ceramic matrix composite was developed by combining ceramic and composite processing through spark plasma sintering. The newly formed particles from the conversion of ZrSi2 and resin were preferentially incorporated into the preform layer with randomly oriented fibers, enhancing the overall properties of the composites.