ZrCSiC Materials from the Polymer-Derived Ceramics Route

• Published in: Advanced engineering materials 2011-07, Vol.13 (7), p.599-603
• Main Authors: Pizon, David, Lucas, Romain, Foucaud, Sylvie, Maître, Alexandre
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ceramics; Crosslinking; Microstructure; Monomers; Particulate composites; Polycarbosilanes; Precursors; Silicon carbide
• ISSN: 1438-1656; 1527-2648; 1527-2648
• DOI: 10.1002/adem.201000336

A method to manufacture composites ZrCSiCp using a polymer‐derived ceramic route for SiC is reported. The key point of this approach was the use of SiC precursor polymers synthesized from a vinylsilane monomer, to enhance organic–inorganic interactions between ZrC mineral phase and the polymer. The results were compared with a commercial polycarbosilane, the polycarbomethylsilane. After heat treatment until 1400 °C, XRD analysis indicated the formation of a β‐SiC phase in presence of ZrC. SEM observations emphasized the role of the polymer structure on the final microstructure. The mechanisms of thermal and chemical cross‐linking were investigated, as well as the thermal behaviour of polymers. A polymer‐derived ceramic route was investigated to manufacture new ZrCSiCp composites. After heat treatment until 1400°C, XRD analysis indicated the formation of a β‐SiC phase in the presence of ZrC. The results were compared with a commercial polycarbosilane, and revealed, in the case of a synthesized poly(methylvinylsilane) precursor, an improved homogeneity in the final microstructure. The use of a suitable organic polymer coating could be a promising way to the elaboration of high performance ceramics.