Fabrication and properties of 3-D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites by the vapor silicon infiltration process

Three-dimensional needled Cf/ZrC–SiC composites were successfully fabricated by the vapor silicon infiltration process. The bulk density, open porosity, and flexural strength of the composite with PyC/SiC interphases were 2.25 g/cm3, 6%, and 301 MPa, respectively. All composites exhibited a non-brittle failure behavior due to propagation and deflection of cracks, as well as fracture and pullout of fibers. The mass loss and linear recession rate of the three-dimensional needled Cf/ZrC–SiC composite exposed to oxyacetylene torch were 0.013 g/s and 0.004 mm/s, respectively. The formation of ZrSiO4 melt on the surface of the composite contributed mainly to the excellent high-temperature property of the composite.