Fabrication and properties of 3-D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites via in-situ reaction

Three-dimensional needled Cf/ZrC–SiC composites were successfully fabricated via in-situ reaction using zirconium powders, silicon powders, and phenolic resin as raw materials. ZrC–SiC matrix is formed through the crystallization at relatively low temperature. The microstructures and mechanical properties of the composites were studied using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and three-point bending test. Their high-temperature oxidation resistance and anti-ablation properties were evaluated using a muffle furnace and the plasma wind tunnel test. The experimental results show that the composites have good mechanical and excellent ablative properties.