Cf/C–SiC–MoSi2 composites with good ablation performance prepared via a two-step hydrothermal method

Abstract

C_f/C–SiC–MoSi₂ composites were prepared via a simple hydrothermal method. The kinetics of the hydrothermal penetration process, the mechanical properties, and ablation behaviors of the composites were investigated. Results showed that the penetration activation energy was only 51.3 kJ mol⁻¹. The flexural strength of the composites was 111.7 MPa. The C_f/C–SiC–MoSi₂ composites exhibited good ablation properties after being exposed to plasma flame at 2300 °C. During the ablation, molten SiO₂ could prevent carbon from oxidation. Moreover, the transformation from MoO₂ to gaseous MoO₃ consumed considerable amounts of oxygen and absorbed a large amount of heat, which prevented the composites from further ablation.