Synthesis in molten salts and formation reaction kinetics of tantalum carbide coatings on various carbon fibers

► TaC coatings were prepared on various carbon fibers by synthesis in molten salts. ► The degree of carbon fiber graphitization influences the thickness of TaC coatings. ► Homogeneous, continuous and crack-free TaC coatings were obtained. ► Two diffusion control models of TaC coating growth were established. ► TaC coating growth is controlled by the internal diffusion of tantalum in the TaC coating.