Synthesis and phases evolution of Si–C–Ti from polycarbosilane (PCS) and metal Ti

Abstract: Si–C–Ti ceramics were synthesized by reactive pyrolysis of polycarbosilane (PCS) precursor filled with metal Ti powder. Pyrolysis of mixture with atomic ratio of Ti:Si through 3:1–3:2 was carried out in argon atmosphere at given temperature up to 1500°C. The metal–precursor reactions, and phase evolution were studied using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy with EDX. The Ti3SiC2 phase was obtained firstly from reaction of PCS and Ti. Ti3SiC2 formation starts at 1300°C and its amount increases significantly in a narrow temperature range between 1400°C and 1500°C. In addition, addition of CaF2 can promote the formation of Ti3SiC2 phase. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]