UHTC-based matrix as protection for Cf/C composites: Original manufacturing, microstructural characterisation and oxidation behaviour at temperature above 2000 °C. Issue 7 (July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Liégaut, C.; Bertrand, P.; Maillé, L.; Rebillat, F.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the European Ceramic Society. Volume 42:Issue 7(2022)
• Page Start: 3168
• Page End: 3182
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Subjects: Ceramic matrix composites (CMC) -- UHTC -- Reactive melt infiltration (RMI) -- Oxyacetylene torch testing -- Oxidation; Ceramic materials -- Periodicals; Composite materials -- Periodicals; Matériaux céramiques -- Périodiques; Composites -- Périodiques; Ceramic materials; Composite materials; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 666.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jeurceramsoc.2022.02.029
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0955-2219

Abstract

Abstract: In space propulsion applications, the development of new ceramic matrix composites with improved resistance to oxidation and ablation at high temperature is needed and ultra-high temperature ceramics-based ones appear the most suitable. Combination of both powder impregnation (ZrB2, C) and liquid silicon infiltration enabled manufacturing of UHTC based matrices in Cf /C preforms with less than 10 vol% open porosity and various proportions and homogeneous distribution of C, ZrB2, SiC and Si. Oxidation behaviour was evaluated on composite structures using an oxyacetylene torch at temperatures higher than 2000 °C. Chemical analyses and microstructural observations before and after oxidation testing evidenced the protection ability of ZrB2 -SiC-Si matrices thanks to the formation of multi-oxide scales which resisted even tested durations of 6 min and pointed the unharmful presence of residual 12 vol% silicon on the composite for use at high temperature under high gas flows.