A linear polycarbosilane containing m-carborane units: Synthesis and characterization as precursor for SiC/B4C ceramics

Abstract

The precursor of poly(carborane)(silicon-acetylene) (PCBS) for silicon carbide (SiC)/B4C composite ceramics was synthesized by a salt metathesis reaction. The molecular weight of PCBS was measured by gel permeation chromatography and the corresponding structures were identified by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). After thermal curing, the PCBS was converted to a dark red brittle nonporous monolith and the thermal stability was significantly improved, especially in an air atmosphere. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the 5% weight loss temperatures were 595°C and 633°C under nitrogen and air atmospheres, respectively, and the corresponding residues at 1000°C were 86.42% and 90.42%. After a heat treatment at 1600°C under inert atmosphere, the well-dispersed SiC/B4C ceramic was obtained and characterized by FTIR, X-ray diffraction analysis, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The obtained SiC/B4C ceramic has a good high-temperature and oxidation resistance which can be applied to aviation, aerospace, and other ultra-high temperature conditions.