Microstructure and properties of 2D-Cf/SiC composite fabricated by combination of CVI and PIP process with SiC particle as inert fillers

2D-Cf/SiC composite was manufactured by chemical vapor inflation (CVI) combined with polymer impregnation and pyrolysis (PIP) with SiC particle as inert fillers. The effects of CVI processes on SiC morphologies and the properties of composite were investigated. The composites were characterized by XRD, flexural strength test and SEM. The results revealed that uniform SiC coatings and nanowires were prepared when MTS/H2 ratio of 1:8 was employed, while gradient thick coatings were fabricated as MTS/H2 ratio of 1:1 was employed. The flexural strength of composites varied from 156 MPa at MTS/H2 ratio of 1:1 to 233 MPa at MTS/H2 ratio of 1:8. All of composites exhibited toughness due to significant debonding and pullout of fibers. The laminated structure of coatings on the fibers and nanowires were manufactured by combination of above different CVI process, and the obtained composites showed flexural strength of as high as 248 MPa and impressive toughness.