Influence of SiCnp content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of ZrB2–SiC nanocomposite

A ZrB2–SiC nanocomposite that introduced nanosized SiC particles into a ZrB2 matrix was fabricated by hot-pressing at 1900 °C for 60 min under a 30 MPa uniaxed load. The composite had an intragranular microstructure that was peculiar to this material. Investigation of the mechanical properties revealed a highest flexural strength of 1009.1 ± 43 MPa and a fracture toughness of 6.8 ± 0.2 MPa m1/2 for the ZrB2–20 vol.% SiC nanocomposite. These improved mechanical properties were strongly dependent on the number of intragranular particles.