Continuous C fibre composites with a porous ZrB2 Matrix

•Carbon fibre–ZrB2 matrix composites were fabricated via infiltration and hot pressing.•Addition of sintering aids is adopted to build up the CMC matrix.•The weak matrix–fibre interface enables damage tolerant behaviour.

ZrB2–continuous C fibre composites were prepared by vacuum-bag infiltration and hot pressing, using 1D fabric carbon preforms from different commercial products. Sintering behaviour and microstructural features such as secondary phases and matrix/fibre interface were analysed. The infiltration process allowed the overall fibre content to be increased up to 70 vol.%, whilst the matrix densification was enabled by sintering aids. Due to presence of residual porosity, the degree of chemical interaction at the fibre/matrix interface was limited and this resulted in an easier pull out in the fractured surfaces, even in absence of fibre protective coating. The composites exhibited a damage tolerant behaviour.

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