Effect of Yttrium on the Properties of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced ZrB2–SiC Composites

Abstract

An approach is proposed which makes it possible to lower the silicon melt infiltration temperature in the fabrication of silicon carbide/zirconium diboride matrix ceramic composites via the formation of a silicon–yttrium low-temperature eutectic. Using thermodynamic calculations, we have substantiated the addition of yttrium to a siliciding agent and demonstrated its advantages. Silicon melt infiltration into composites has been carried out for the first time at a temperature below the melting point of silicon, which has ensured a decrease in the degree of carbon fiber degradation, while allowing the matrix to retain high density and uniformity.