Effects of sol contents and sintering temperatures on SiO2 coated needled carbon fibre felt composites

ABSTRACT Carbon fibre has excellent mechanical properties at high temperatures but weak oxidation resistance. The paper prepared the anti-oxidative silica coating on the surface of needled carbon fibre felt by the sol–gel method and discussed the effects of sol content and sintering temperature on the coatings’ performance. The phase composition, density, thermal conductivity and thermal stability of derived composites were characterised, and the structure and morphology of SiO2 coatings were also analysed by scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that a uniform and complete coating could be formed on the fibre surface when the sol content exceeds 20%. Ceramic particles sintered below 1200°C were amorphous silica, while those sintered at 1350°C were cristobalite. Compared with other processes, 20% silica sol content or sintering at 1350°C could provide better antioxidant protection. The new coating process is significant for retarding fibre oxidation in a high-temperature environment.