3D C f /ZrC–SiC composites fabricated with ZrC nanoparticles and ZrSi 2 alloy

3D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites were fabricated via a combination process of polymer infiltration and pyrolysis and reactive melt infiltration with ZrC nanoparticles and ZrSi2 alloy. ZrC nanoparticles was first introduced into 3D needle-punched carbon fiber preforms by impregnating the mixture of ZrC nanoparticles and phenol resin, followed by pyrolysis at 900°C. As-prepared composites were densified by PIP with phenol resin for five cycles, and then were heat treated at a higher temperature. Molten ZrSi2 alloy was then infiltrated into the porous 3D Cf/ZrC–C to obtain 3D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites. Microstructure evolution associated with phase variation was investigated. Mechanical properties and ablation properties of 3D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites were reported. Results show that ZrC nanoparticles have important roles in the fabrication procedure of 3D Cf/ZrC–SiC and that the mechanical properties of 3D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites can be further improved. The mass loss rate and linear recession rate of 3D Cf/ZrC–SiC composites without F/M interphase are 3.4×10−3g/s and 2.1×10−3mm/s, respectively.