Improvement in mechanical and ablation properties of carbon/carbon composites with nanofilamentous carbon and CeC2

Abstract

Nanofilamentous carbons (NFCs) and CeC2 NF@NFC core-shell structures reinforced carbon/carbon composites were fabricated using chemical vapor infiltration via adding CeCl3 into preforms. The NFCs and CeC2 NF@NFCs constructed reinforcing bridges across the fiber/matrix interface and matrix with proper CeCl3 contents. The flexural and interlaminar shear properties were remarkably improved due to the synergistic reinforcements of the nanofilaments and CeC2 particles. The inhibition of matrix damage by the nanofilaments together with a thickened rough laminar pyrocarbon and rapid heat dissipation alleviated annular matrix oxidation and denudation. Higher CeCl3 content increased the oxidation channels and active sites and then oxidation ablation.