Composite polymer derived ceramic system for oxidizing environments

Preceramic polymers and expansion agents are being investigated to produce composite ceramic coatings for oxidation protection of metallic substrates. In this paper, we present results of a systematic approach to selecting the preceramic polymer and expansion agents and the optimization of the processing parameters to produce composite ceramics. Six commercially available poly(silsesquioxane) polymers and a polysiloxane were studied. In addition, several metals and an intermetallic were considered as potential expansion agents. Based on this study, the most desirable polymer/expansion agent combination and optimal processing parameters have been identified.