Effect of Nb coating on oxidation behavior of C/C composites

To protect carbon/carbon (C/C) composites against oxidation, a Nb coating was prepared on C/C composites by a DC magnetron sputtering method. The phase composition, microstructure and oxidation behavior of the Nb coated C/C composites were investigated. The initial oxidation temperature of the Nb coated C/C composites is about 350 K higher than that of the as-received C/C composites. The Nb coating can protect the C/C composites from oxidation at 1173 K for 75 min. The failure of the coating is considered to arise from the cracks generated during the oxidation of the Nb coating.

► A Nb oxidation barrier was prepared on C/C composites by magnetron sputtering.
► The Nb coating can protect the C/C composites from oxidation at 1173 K for 75 min.
► Oxidation of the C/C composites is due to the cracks generated during oxidation.