One-step preparation of bi-layer foamed glass-ceramics using asynchronous oxidization of SiC and B4C

Abstract

Bi-layer foamed glass-ceramic has the advantages of both dense and foamed structure which lead to low bulk density and high mechanical strength. We propose a new one-step method to produce bi-layer foamed glass-ceramic using the asynchronous oxidization of B4C and SiC. The parent glass is prepared by melting-quenching method, followed by foaming through powder sintering route with addition of B4C and SiC. The bi-layer structure and formation of bi-layers are investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray computed tomography, 11B NMR, and high temperature melting observation system (HTMOS). The results show that during the sintering process, the oxidization of B4C in top layer at low temperature forms boron oxide and helps the formation of glass melt in the top layer. The oxidization of SiC at high temperature leads to foaming in the top layer. The prepared bi-layer foamed glass-ceramic has low bulk density of 1.06 g·cm−3 and high flexural strength of 26.15 MPa.