Fabrication, microstructure and properties of C/C-ZrC composites prepared by an asphalt-Zr(acac)4 precursor. (22nd August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lin, Wenqiang; Chen, Si'an; Li, Yong; Jia, Yan; Pan, Yong; Hu, Haifeng
• Is Part Of: Materials research express. Volume 5:Number 10(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-08-22
• Subjects: C/C-ZrC composites -- asphalt-Zr(acac)4 precursor -- homogeneous distribution -- ablation properties; Materials science -- Research -- Periodicals; Materials science -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1088/2053-1591/aad99e
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2053-1591

Abstract

Abstract: C/C-ZrC composites were fabricated successfully using melt polymer infiltration, in situ crosslinking, pyrolysis and graphitization processes of an asphalt-Zr(acac)4 precursor which resulted in homogeneous dispersion of ZrC. Four key processing parameters were optimized and the co-pyrolysis of asphalt and Zr(acac)4 gave a dense matrix that exhibited relatively few pores, with uniform distribution of the ZrC phase throughout the matrix. This process was expected to achieve rapid densification of the C/C-ZrC composites, with density levels of 1.86 g cm −3 prepared after 15 cycles. However, the infiltration efficiency and the mechanical properties need to be improved, then some reasons were discussed and suggestions were proposed. The hardness and graphitization degree of composites was characterized. The mass losses and linear recession rate of the fabricated C/C-ZrC composite during plasma torch tests were 0.0051 g s −1 and 0.0200 mm s −1, respectively. Formation of melted ZrO2 on the surface of these composites is likely to be responsible for the improvement in their anti-ablation properties.