An inorganic-organic hybrid precursor strategy for the synthesis of zirconium diboride powders

► A polymer PZS was synthesized by polymerization of zirconium oxychloride, salicyl alcohol and acetylacetone. ► A ZrB2 precursor was prepared via blending the polymer PZS and boric acid. ► The prepared precursor is soluble, and can be used for the preparation of ZrB2 doped C/C composite material.