Ablation mechanism of C/C–ZrB2–ZrC–SiC composite fabricated by polymer infiltration and pyrolysis with preform of Cf/ZrB2

Abstract

C/C–ZrB2–ZrC–SiC composites were fabricated by polymer infiltration and pyrolysis (PIP) with a preform of Cf/ZrB2. The ZrB2 powders were sprayed onto fabric layer by layer before the fabric is needled. After introduction of resin carbon and ZrC–SiC into the preform, a ceramic coating on the matrix and fibres was formed in the composites. The plasma ablation test indicates that the composites possess a good ablation resistance after ablation for 180s and 240s. The SiO2–ZrO2 barrier layer, high temperature Zr–Si–O glass layer and heat dissipation all contribute to the good ablation resistance of the composites.