Nanoparticle-induced phase transformation boosts mechanical and ablation performance for C/C-ZrC-SiC composites (IMAGE)
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The meltable organic precursor coats the surface of Si-Zr particles, pyrolyzes into nanoparticles adsorbed on the surface, and infiltrates into the porous C/C preform along with the molten Si-Zr. Subsequent carbothermal reduction reaction yields nano-dispersion-strengthened C/C-ZrC-SiC composites. During loading, ZrC nanoparticles induce dislocation nucleation and stress-driven 3C→6H-SiC phase transformation, achieving effective matrix strengthening and toughening. Meanwhile, during ablation, these nanoparticles are oxidized to form nano ZrO2, which acts as pinning phases in the amorphous SiO2 scale and triggers martensitic transformation, significantly enhancing resistance to plasma flame erosion.
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Journal of Advanced Ceramics, Tsinghua University Press
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