Properties of carbon nano-tubes–Cf/SiC composite by precursor infiltration and pyrolysis process

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were introduced into the precursor infiltration and pyrolysis (PIP) carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide matrix (Cf/SiC) composite via the infiltration slurry. The weight fraction of CNTs in the composite was 0.765‰. The fiber–matrix interface coating was prepared through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process using methyltrichlorosilane (MTS). Effects of the CNTs on mechanical and thermal properties of the composite were evaluated by three-point bending test, single-edge notched beam (SENB) test, and laser flash method. Attributed to the introduction of the small quantity of CNTs, flexural strength and fracture toughness of the Cf/SiC composite both increased by 25%, and thermal conductivity at room temperature increased by 30%.