Reinforcement of Ultra-High-Temperature Zirconium Diboride Composites with Silicon Carbide Nanowires for Aerospace Applications

Abstract

The development of ultra-high-temperature ceramics (UHTCs) is critical for hypersonic and aerospace systems. This work presents the fabrication and characterization of ZrB₂–SiC nanowire composites with improved thermal stability and oxidation resistance. Hot pressing and spark plasma sintering were used to achieve dense microstructures with controlled nanowire dispersion. Mechanical testing at 1800°C demonstrates enhanced flexural strength and thermal shock resistance, attributed to crack deflection and load transfer mechanisms. These composites show promise for reusable thermal protection systems and high-enthalpy propulsion components.