Additive Manufacturing of SiCN Ceramic Matrix for SiC Fiber Composites by Flash Pyrolysis of Nanoscale Polymer Films

The potential of polymer‐derived ceramic matrices for silicon‐carbide fiber composites is demonstrated by additive layering of thin films on SiC fiber bundles. The thin liquid films, which naturally wet the fiber surfaces, are cross‐linked and pyrolyzed in‐situ into the silicon carbonitride ceramic in just a few seconds to yield defect‐free layers that are 10 to 100 nm thick. The infiltration is completed by repeating the cycles. A nearly fully dense and defect free SiCN matrix could be obtained. Room‐temperature tensile tests show a tensile strength of ~1200 MPa. Good matrix‐fiber interface behavior is seen with pull‐out character which is most likely responsible for the apparent ductility. The SiC fibers were uncoated.