From trimethylvinylsilane to ZrC-SiC hybrid materials

We describe a new route to synthesize hybrid ZrC-SiC materials in a one-pot procedure. Polycarbosilane was generated from trimethylvinylsilane in the presence of ZrC powder. A specific interaction between the polymer and the ceramic particles was evidenced. The conversion of precursor into composite was achieved by pyrolysis under argon up to 1100 degrees C. From thermogravimetric analyses, pyrolysis tests and SEM observations, it has been shown that these hybrid materials kept a stability above 850 degrees C, and their total mass loss remained lower than 20%. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.