Oxidation behavior of SiC fiber reinforced SiC-Ti3SiC2 matrix composite at high temperature

Three different SiCf/SiC-Ti3SiC2 composites were prepared by slurry impregnation pyrolysis and reactive melt infiltration. The oxidation behavior of the composites at 1300 °C from 2h to100h was studied. These samples were examined by using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis. Then, three-point bending and nano indentation test were carried out to investigate the mechanical performance of the composites with and without oxidization. The results revealed that the Max phase Ti3SiC2 can improve the strength and toughness of the composites. After oxidation at 1300 °C, Max phase still existed in the matrix, and the strength highest retention rate of the material was 83%. Furthermore, the possible oxidation mechanism was proposed on the basis of the results.