Oxidation features of SiOC/MoSi2 composite at low temperatures

The oxidation behavior of SiOC containing dispersed MoSi₂ particles was studied. An SiOC/MoSi₂ composite was prepared by converting polymethylsiloxane into SiOC via pyrolysis after mixing MoSi₂ particles. The SiOC matrix phase oxidized to SiO₂, and MoSi₂ particles oxidized to SiQ and MoO₃. The composite displayed superior oxidation resistance at 110 0°C, because a thin SiO₂ layer formed on the surface deterred the formation of highly volatile MoO₃. However, accelerated oxidation occurred between 400 and 500°C owing to the concurrent formation of SiO₂ and MoO₃, which led to porous, nonprotective scale formation.