Characterization of Fiber-Reinforced SiC Composites by Precursor-Pyrolysis and Hot-Pressing

CF/SiC and Hi-Nicalon/SiC composites were prepared by precursor pyrolysis-hot pressing, and the microstructure and fracture behavior of the composites were investigated. Because of a strongly bonded fiber/matrix interface primarily resulting from the direct reactions between the fibers and matrix, Hi-Nicalon/SiC composite exhibited a typical brittle fracture behavior. However, CF/SiC composite displayed a tough fracture behavior with extensive fiber pullout, which was primarily attributed to a weakly bonded fiber/matrix interface as well as higher strength retention of the fibers. As a result, CF/SiC composite achieved better mechanical properties of 691.6 MPa in strength and 20.7 MPa•m1/2 in toughness, which were much higher than those of Hi-Nicalon/SiC composite.