In Situ Processing and Properties of SiC/MoSi2 Nanocomposites

A novel concept for in situ processing of SiC/MoSi2 nanocomposites has been developed that combines the pyrolysis of MoSi2 particles coated with polycarbosilane and subsequent densification by hot pressing. After densification, a uniform dispersion of SiC particles is obtained in the MoSi2 matrix. The strength at both room and elevated temperature is dramatically improved by the processing protocol employed. The average room‐temperature flexural strength measured for the SiC/MoSi2 nanocomposite was 760 versus 150 MPa for unreinforced MoSi2. The average 1250°C flexural strength measured for the SiC/MoSi2 nanocomposite was 606 versus 77 MPa for unreinforced MoSi2.