Oxidation behavior and protection of carbon/carbon composites prepared using rapid directional diffused CVI techniques

The oxidation kinetics of carbon/carbon (C/C) composites prepared using a rapid directional diffused (RDD) CVI process were studied. The results showed that the Arrhenius curve for the RDD CVI C/C composites consists of two straight lines, the intercept of which is at about 700 °C at the linear oxidation stage. The oxidation rates are controlled by the surface reaction at 600-700 °C, and the corresponding activation energy is 121 kJ/mol. Between 700 and 800 °C, the oxidation rates are dominated by chemical reaction and diffusion, and the relevant activation energy is 80 kJ/mol. SEM investigation showed that the oxidation starts with original pores on the C/C composite surface with the carbon fiber and matrix oxidized simultaneously. An inexpensive and easily pasted coating containing epoxy organic silicon resin, borates, refractory particulates, etc. was developed. After isothermal temperature, thermal cycle and immersion water oxidation tests, the coating was demonstrated to exhibit good oxidation-resistance properties. The oxidation-resistant mechanism of the coating is discussed.