Microstructure and properties of carbon fiber reinforced SiC matrix composites containing Ti₃SiC₂

Carbon fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites (CFCCs) are promising materials for high-temperature applications. Due to the unique nanolaminated structure and special properties, the MAX phases are promising reinforcements for CFCCs. As one representative member of the MAX phases, Ti ₃SiC₂ has been in situ formed in C/C-SiC and C/SiC composites by a joint process of slurry infiltration and liquid silicon infiltration in recent years. The composites containing Ti₃SiC ₂ exhibited improved mechanical properties, tribological performance, and ablation behavior compared with those of unmodified composites. The introduction of MAX phases in CFCCs could extend their application fields effectively, and it is expected to bring more benefits to CFCCs by introducing the MAX phases in the future. The tribological behavior of C/C-SiC and ablation resistance of C/SiC are improved by introducing Ti₃SiC₂, revealing that the introduction of MAX phases into ceramic matrix composites is an effective way to improve their performance and extend their application fields.