Characterization and functionalization by sol–gel route of SiC foams

Ceramic foam materials are commonly used for various applications, including catalyst supports or solar receivers. SiC foams are good candidates for the latter application as solar receivers. Its efficiency is directly related to the geometry, which can be evidenced by X-ray microtomography, and optical properties of the receiver. A promising route to add functionalities with homogenous and adhering oxide coatings onto complex SiC foams in a single step process is proposed. This oxide synthetic process is derived from the Pechini method. Foams are fully impregnated by precursor sols with a controlled viscosity making a thin and totally covering coating.