Oxidation Behavior of ZrB<sub>2</sub>-15vol.%SiC at an Oxygen Partial Pressure of 57 Pa

Abstract

The oxidation tests of the ZrB2-15vol.%SiC composite were carried out at 1673-1923 K under a low partial pressure of oxygen. Cross sections of the oxidized samples were studied using WDS. The reaction layer consists of ZrO2 and SiO2 at 1673 K. The SiO2 protective layer is formed on the surface. No apparent SiC depleted layer is observed. SiC depletion seems to occur at 1923 K and only the ZrO2 phase exists at the reaction layer. The passive oxidation occurs at 1673 K, whereas the active oxidation at 1923 K. The mass changes are quantitatively discussed by introducing a new emprical equation. The ZrB2-30 vol.%SiC composite is also discussed briefly.