Influence factors of C/C–SiC dual matrix composites prepared by reactive melt infiltration

The effects of the type of carbon matrix, the infiltration temperature and high temperature treatment (HTT) on the infiltration behavior of molten Si and preparation of C/C–SiC dual matrix composites have been investigated. The results showed that: Resin carbon matrix is benificial to the infiltration of molten Si than pyrolysis carbon matrix. 1650 °C is more suitable for the infiltration of molten Si in porous C/C preforms than 1550 °C. The high infiltration depth at 1650 °C is responsible for the high density of C/C–SiC composites. HTT facilitates to the infiltration of molten Si and the formation of more SiC. High density and low open porosity C/C–SiC dual matrix composites can be prepared by optimal reactive molten infiltration method. The flexural strength, elastic modul and impact toughness of C/C–SiC composites are high up to 265.4 MPa, 28.1 GPa and 28.5 kJ/m2 respectively. Heat treatment at 2300 °C decreases the composites flexural strength, elastic modul and impact toughness, but improve the fracture behavior of C/C–SiC dual matrix composites.