Achieving nearly-homogeneous joint of ZrC-SiC composite via liquid-film assisted transformation strategy enabled by pulsed current

doi:10.1016/j.jmst.2025.03.091

Abstract

Abstract: Developing a high-performance joint of ZrC-SiC composite is urgent in the manufacturing of advanced thermal protection systems. In this work, a nearly-homogeneous joint of ZrC-SiC was achieved by a liquid-film assisted strategy enabled by pulsed current. A sandwich Ti-Zr-Ti interlayer was in-situ transformed to a dense ceramic seam of ZrC_x at 1400 °C for 20 min, and the obtained joint exhibited a shear strength and reliability comparable to those of the base material. The experimental and theoretical analysis revealed that the joint formation mechanism involved (i) Precipitation of primary ZrC_x particles in Zr core-interlayer, (ii) Homogenization of Ti and Zr foils, (iii) Ti₃Zr₃Si₃ interfacial layer produced by interaction of SiC and (Zr, Ti), (iv) Liquid-film formation by eutectic reaction of Ti₃Zr₃Si₃ and (Zr, Ti), and (v) Epitaxial growth of ZrC_x particles accompanied by liquid extrusion. The pulsed-current triggered interfacial overheating, enhancing the interfacial reactions and facilitating the liquid extrusion. Overall, our work provides a strategy for the development of high-performance components of ZrC-SiC composite via a facile joining process.

Key words: ZrC-SiC composite, Pulsed current, Interfacial reaction, Joint, Homogeneous interface

Jincheng Lin, Yao Chen, Decai Ma, Lili Xing, Peng He, Weiqi Yang, Tiesong Lin. Achieving nearly-homogeneous joint of ZrC-SiC composite via liquid-film assisted transformation strategy enabled by pulsed current[J]. J. Mater. Sci. Technol., 2026, 243: 192-205.

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