[T14] High Temperature Materials

[16P-T14-07] Fabrication of ZrB₂-SiC and Its Related Composites by SPS and Their Oxidation Behavior

*H. Morishita¹, D. Elsner², R. Kobayashi¹, S. Maruyama¹, K. Komurasaki³, A. Momozawa¹ (1.Tokyo City University, Japan, 2.University of Stuttgart, Germany, 3.The University of Tokyo, Japan)

Keywords:spark plasma sintering, boride ceramics, silicon carbide, thermal protection system, oxidation

Zirconium diboride (ZrB₂) is a leading candidate for thermal protection systems (TPS) for re-entry vehicles due to its high melting point, thermal shock resistance, and low density. ZrB₂ does not fully possess oxidation resistance necessary for surviving the re-entry condition. It improves oxidation resistance when composited with silicon carbide (SiC) and can withstand the intense oxidation environment caused by aerodynamic heating during re-entry. In order to develop TPS, high-density ZrB₂-SiC with different composition ratios were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). In addition, TPS with carbides and silicides added to ZrB₂-SiC were also fabricated for enhanced sinterability and oxidation resistance. Static oxidation experiments in an oxidizing atmosphere were conducted to evaluate their oxidation resistance.