ZrC-SiC Materials from the Polymer-Derived Ceramics Route

A method to manufacture composites ZrC-SiCp using a polymer-derived ceramic route for SiC is reported. The key point of this approach was the use of SiC precursor polymers synthesized from a vinylsilane monomer, to enhance organic-inorganic interactions between ZrC mineral phase and the polymer. The results were compared with a commercial polycarbosilane, the polycarbomethylsilane. After heat treatment until 1400 degrees C, XRD analysis indicated the formation of a beta-SiC phase in presence of ZrC. SEM observations emphasized the role of the polymer structure on the final microstructure. The mechanisms of thermal and chemical cross-linking were investigated, as well as the thermal behaviour of polymers.