Mechanical and physical behaviors of short pitch-based carbon fiber-reinforced HfB2–SiC matrix composites

Short Pitch-based carbon fiber-reinforced HfB2 matrix composites containing 20vol% SiC, with fiber volume fractions in the range of 20–50%, were manufactured by hot-press process. Highly dense composite compacts were obtained at 2100°C and 20MPa for 60min. The flexural strength of the composites was measured at room temperature and 1600°C. The fracture toughness, thermal and electrical conductivities of the composites were evaluated at room temperature. The effects of fiber volume fractions on these properties were assessed. The flexural strength of the composites depended on the fiber volume fraction. In addition, the flexural strength was significantly greater at 1600°C than at room temperature. The fracture toughness was improved due to the incorporation of fibers. The thermal and electrical conductivities decreased with the increase of fiber volume fraction, however.