Microstructure and phase evolution behavior of SiZrBC ceramic precursors synthesized via sol–gel method

ZrB2–SiC ceramics were successfully prepared via sol–gel method using phenyltrichlorosilane, borane dimethyl sulfide, and zirconium tetrachloride in stoichiometric amounts as the raw materials. The macromolecular network structure formed after the sol–gel process was investigated via Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR) spectroscopy. The phase evolution of the ZrB2–SiC ceramics were analyzed by FT–IR spectroscopy, X–ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy, whereas morphological and elemental analyses were performed using scanning electron microscopy. In particular, the change in phase composition was monitored after the pyrolysis from 1400 to 1500 ​°C, and the heat treatment of BZ6 precursor at 1500 ​°C enabled one to produce the ZrB2–SiC ceramic with a homogeneous crystal phase distribution. Therefore, the controllable microstructure adjustment of the ceramic phase composition could be achieved and a new way was paved for the structural and functional applications of ultra–high–temperature ceramics (UHTCs) series. [Display omitted] •A novel SiZrBC single source precursors and ZrB2–SiC ceramics were prepared.•The phase composition of ceramic samples could be customized by adjusting the molar ratio of boron to zirconium.•The carbothermic reduction and boron thermal reduction reactions complete at 1500 ​°C.