Structural control and mechanical properties optimization of porous SiC foams with three-dimensional network structure

In this paper, a new process for preparing porous SiC foam with three-dimensional network structure is presented. A certain thickness of SiC coating is deposited on the surface of ultra-light carbon skeleton by CVD process, so as to achieve effective control of its structure and mechanical properties. The effects of CVD deposition time on the density, porosity and skeleton thickness rates of SiC foams were explored. By increasing the CVD deposition time, the structure of SiC foams can be effectively regulated, and the mechanical properties of SiC foams can be significantly improved. The porosity of the prepared SiC foam can be adjusted in a wide range (26.9%∼94.68%). When the density of SiC foam increases from 0.67 g/cm3 to 2.36 g/cm3, its bending strength increases from 27.4 MPa to 136.9 MPa, which is significantly improved. After high temperature oxidation treatment (800–1200 °C), the mechanical properties of SiC foam will be further improved. However, when the oxidation temperature reaches 1400 °C, its mechanical properties will be reduced. This research provides a new idea for the preparation of high-performance porous SiC ceramics, and lays a foundation for its structural design, manufacture and application.