Preparation high-performance SiC ceramic reinforced with 3D hybrid graphene oxide-carbon nanotube by direct ink writing and liquid silicon infiltration

Abstract

This paper proposes the preparation of a silicon carbide ceramic matrix composite toughened with three-dimensional graphene oxide-carbon nanotubes (3D GO-CNT) using direct ink writing and liquid silicon infiltration processes. The research focuses on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composite, emphasizing the toughening impact of varied GO-CNT ratios. When the GO-CNT ratio was 1:2, the mechanical properties of the material were optimal, with a flexural strength of 337.4 MPa and a fracture toughness of 4.58 MPa · m1/2, which were enhanced by 40.9% and 34.7%, respectively, compared to that of the pure silicon carbide matrix. Graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes can act as dispersants for each other enabling them to be uniformly distributed in the matrix. Key toughening mechanisms include GO/CNT pull-out, multiple microcracks, crack bridging, deflection, and branching. This study promises to significantly improve the mechanical properties of 3D printed SiC composites, assisting their potential applications in aerospace engineering.