Solution based processing and properties of carbon fiber reinforced SiC+ZrO2 composites

• Published in: Composites science and technology Vol. 106; pp. 55 - 59
• Main Authors: Padmavathi, N., Ghosal, P., Ray, K.K.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 16-01-2015
• Subjects: A. Carbon fibers; B. Mechanical properties; D. Scanning electron microscopy; E. Heat treatment; A. Carbon fibers; E. Heat treatment; D. Scanning electron microscopy; B. Mechanical properties
• ISSN: 0266-3538; 1879-1050
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2014.11.001

Uni-directional carbon fiber (Cf) reinforced SiC+ZrO2 composites were prepared by a solution approach in which the matrix was prepared using water-soluble precursors of colloidal silica, sucrose and zirconium oxychloride as sources of silica, carbon and zirconia respectively. After suitable heat treatment, the precursors convert into fine SiC+ZrO2 particles with a uniform dispersion. In Cf/SiC+ZrO2 composites, in situ formation of SiC+ZrO2 provides an effective way for uniform dispersion of SiC and ZrO2 in the matrix. Analysis indicates complete reaction of the precursors to yield SiC+ZrO2 as the composite matrix. The room temperature mechanical properties and the fracture behaviour of the composites were examined. A tensile strength of 617±54MPa and fracture energy of 2.69±0.9MJ/m3 were obtained. The tensile strength of Cf/SiC+ZrO2 composites was twice that of Cf/SiC composites produced by same approach. This is attributed to stabilization of the zirconia phase in the presence of the SiC phase by tailoring the starting materials and their composition.