Graphite powder reinforced pyrocarbon, a new kind of C/C composite

Graphite powder reinforced pyrocarbon (G/C) was prepared by thermal gradient chemical vapor infiltration technology. The microstructures and basic properties of the G/C were investigated by polarized light microscopy, SEM, electrical and mechanical tests. It is found that pyrocarbon enwraps the graphite powder particles and fills the pores between them effectively. The G/C is isotropic, has a density of 1.85g/cm³, and has a higher volume resistivity (148.4μΩ·m) than graphite and the other C/C composites. It has excellent mechanical properties with a flexural strength of 50MPa and a compressive strength of 120MPa, twice those of pure graphite. The compressive strength of the G/C is similar to, and the flexural strength is lower than, those of carbon felt/pyrocarbon composites.