Microstructure and mechanical properties of Cf/SiC composites fabricated by RMI: Effect of Cf/C preform heat treatment

Jianzhao Shang, Yongsheng Liu, Jian Chen, Yejie Cao, Yu Pan, Jingxin Li, Yunhai Zhang, Yansong Liu

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The correlation of the pore structures and graphitization degree of Cf/C preforms and the microstructure and properties of Cf/SiC composites is significance for the fabrication of ceramic matrix composites by reactive melt infiltration (RMI). This study systematically investigates the impact of heat treatment temperature on the pore structure and graphitization degree of porous Cf/C preforms and the subsequent microstructure and mechanical performance of Cf/SiC composites. Results reveal that increasing heat treatment temperature leads to greater porosity and higher graphitization, promoting enhanced silicon infiltration and SiC formation. However, excessive infiltration of molten Si causes fiber erosion, compromising mechanical properties. The untreated composite exhibited the highest flexural strength of 237.4 MPa, while the composite from the 2000 °C-treated preform showed increased density but reduced strength due to brittle fracture behavior. This study also focused on the effects of infiltration temperature and time on properties and infiltration depth of composites was also calculated by dynamics. These findings emphasize the importance of optimizing heat treatment conditions and RMI parameters to balance densification, microstructure, and mechanical performance in Cf/SiC composites, offering valuable insights into optimizing fabrication processes for high-performance Cf/SiC composites.

Original languageEnglish
Article number115171
JournalMaterials Characterization
Volume225
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2025

Keywords

  • C/C preforms
  • Mechanical properties
  • Microstructure
  • Pore structures
  • Reactive melt infiltration

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