High temperature deformation of ZrB2–SiC–AlN ceramic composite

ZrB2 ceramic composites are powerful candidates for use in ultra-high temperature structural materials given their strength under high temperatures, superb ablation resistance, and good oxidation resistance. Unfortunately, ZrB2 ceramic composites are difficult to deform due to inherent brittle property, which impedes large-scale application. High temperature deformation of ZrB2–SiC–AlN ceramic composite at 1900 °C with inert gas protection is investigated using deep drawing technique. The deformation behavior under biaxial stress and the microstructure characteristics are analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) along with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results indicate that the fine grain ZrB2–SiC–AlN ceramic composites have excellent high temperature deformation property at 1900 °C. The effects of inducting AlN into ZrB2–SiC ceramic and punch rate on high temperature deformation are discussed. The deformation mechanism of ceramic composites is proposed correspondingly.