In Situ Processing and Properties of SiC/MoSi2 Nanocomposites

Abstract

A novel concept for in situ processing of SiC/MoSi 2 nanocomposites has been developed that combines the pyrolysis of MoSi 2 particles coated with polycarbosilane and subsequent densification by hot pressing. After densification, a uniform dispersion of SiC particles is obtained in the MoSi 2 matrix. The strength at both room and elevated temperature is dramatically improved by the processing protocol employed. The average room‐temperature flexural strength measured for the SiC/MoSi 2 nanocomposite was 760 versus 150 MPa for unreinforced MoSi 2 . The average 1250°C flexural strength measured for the SiC/MoSi 2 nanocomposite was 606 versus 77 MPa for unreinforced MoSi 2 .