Effect of Argon Atmosphere Heat Treatment on Mechanical Properties and Microstructural Evolution of Shicolon-II SiC Fibers

doi:10.15541/jim20250052

Abstract

Abstract: Silicon carbide fibers are considered ideal reinforcing materials for ceramic matrix composites due to their excellent mechanical properties and high-temperature performance. Different types of fibers necessitate individual investigation due to variations in their composition and fabrication processes. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the evolution of the mechanical properties, surface microstructure, and composition of Shicolon-II fibers subjected to argon heat treatment at temperatures ranging from 1300 °C to 1700 °C. The Shicolon-II fibers are composed of small-sized β-SiC grains, SiC_xO_y amorphous phase, and a minor amount of graphite microcrystals. Following treatment in an argon atmosphere at 1300 °C, the fibers maintain a monofilament tensile strength of 3.62 GPa, corresponding to a retention of 98.32% retention. This strength diminishes to 2.87 GPa, equating to a retention of 78.08%, after treatment at 1500 °C. The reduction in the mechanical properties of the fibers can be ascribed to the decomposition of the amorphous phase and the growth of β-SiC grains. Furthermore, creep resistance is an essentialfactor influencing the long-term performance of composite materials. After treatment at temperatures above 1400 °C, the high-temperature creep resistance of the fibers is significantly enhanced due to the growth of β-SiC grains. This study offers valuable theoretical insights into the high-temperature applications of second-generation fibers, contributing to an enhanced understanding of their performance under extreme conditions.

Key words: Shicolon-II SiC fibers, heat treatment, mechanical properties, microstructure

CLC Number:

TQ343

YUAN Wang, HU Jianbao, Zhou Liang, KAN Yanmei, ZHANG Xiangyu, DONG Shaoming. Effect of Argon Atmosphere Heat Treatment on Mechanical Properties and Microstructural Evolution of Shicolon-II SiC Fibers[J]. Journal of Inorganic Materials, DOI: 10.15541/jim20250052.

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