In situ synthesis, mechanical properties, and oxidation resistance of (SiC+ZrB2)/Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 composites

• In situ (SiC + ZrB2)/Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 composites with different SiC content were prepared.
• SiC and ZrB2 show significant strengthening and toughening effect to the matrix.
• The oxidation kinetics of the composites follows a parabolic law during oxidation at 1000–1300 °C.
• With the increase of SiC, the oxidation resistance of the composites is improved remarkably.

In situ (SiC+ZrB2)/Zr3[Al(Si)]4C6 composites with 0–15 vol.% SiC and 15 vol.% ZrB2 were prepared. As reinforcements, the incorporation of SiC and ZrB2 shows significant strengthening and toughening effect by the synergistic action of mechanisms including particulate reinforcement, grain-refinement, and grain’s pull-out, etc. The oxidation kinetics of the composites at 1000–1300 °C in air follows a parabolic law. With the incorporation and increase of SiC, the oxidation resistance of the composites is improved remarkably. It is attributed to the formation of a protective oxide scale containing borosilicate glass and more mullite, which effectively prevents the inward diffusion of oxygen.