High-performance ZrB2-SiC-Cf composite prepared by low-temperature hot pressing using nanosized ZrB2 powder

High-performance ZrB2-SiC-C-1 composite was successfully prepared by low temperature (1450 degrees C) hot pressing using nanosized ZrB2 powder. Such material exhibited a non-brittle fracture feature, high work of fracture (321 Jim(2)) and excellent thermal shock resistance as well as good oxidation resistance. Composite incorporating carbon fibers in which the degradation of the carbon fiber was effectively inhibited through low-temperature sintering displayed remarkably improved thermal shock resistance with a critical temperature difference of 754 degrees C, almost twice those of the reported ZrB2-based ultra-high temperature ceramics. The thermal and chemical stability of the carbon fiber and ceramic matrix were further analyzed by thermodynamic calculation and HR-TEM analysis.(C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.