Fabrication of a ZrC–SiC matrix for ceramic matrix composites and its properties

A ZrC–SiC matrix was fabricated by means of a liquid precursor conversion method, using an organic zirconium-containing polymeric precursor and polycarbosilane. The effects of the starting reagents and pyrolysis temperature on the fabrication of the ZrC–SiC matrix were studied. The ZrC–SiC matrix with different ZrC/SiC ratios could be formed using different starting reagents. The pyrolysis temperature also affected the pyrolyzed product. The reactions were substantially completed at a relatively low temperature (∼1500 °C). The crystalline size and morphology of the synthesized matrix were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the application of the ZrC–SiC matrix in ceramic matrix composites was investigated. The microstructures, as well as mechanical and ablative properties of three-dimensional Cf/ZrC–SiC composites were studied. The flexural strength of the composite was 324.9 MPa, and the elastic modulus was 27.8 GPa. The mass loss rate and linear recession rate of the composite during an oxyacetylene torch test were 0.01 g/s and–0.002 mm/s, respectively.