Abstract Scope |
Ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) demonstrate significant promise in armor and hypersonic engine applications. However, existing materials are too brittle and expensive to incorporate into aerospace and military systems. Our approach produces dense, nanostructured, monolithic UHTC composites with various inclusions that maximize density, hardness, and durability under high temperatures. We developed a novel synthesis route that yields shaped carbides, nitrides, and borides from compressed powder mixtures of metal precursors and high char-yielding resins. We incorporate metals, fibers, and ceramics into these composites to improve their mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties and adapt them for many vital applications. |