SiC-CNT composite prepared by electrophoretic codeposition and the polymer infiltration and pyrolysis process

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Silicon carbide (SiC) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are advanced materials with unique properties.
• Composite materials offer synergistic enhancements over individual components.
• Controlling the deposition of nanoparticles and nanotubes is crucial for material performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the anodic codeposition of SiC powder and multiwalled CNTs.
• To determine optimal conditions for forming stable and firm SiC-CNT composite deposits.
• To explore post-deposition densification methods for the composites.

Main Methods:

• Anodic codeposition from aqueous suspensions.
• Characterization of suspension properties (pH, solids content, CNT content, zeta-potential, conductivity).
• Optimization of deposition parameters.
• Polymer infiltration and pyrolysis for densification.

Main Results:

• Successful anodic codeposition of SiC and CNTs was achieved.
• Optimal deposition required high absolute zeta-potential and limited suspension conductivity (<1 mS/cm).
• Suspension conductivity was reduced via dilution or dialysis of CNTs.
• SiC-CNT deposits were successfully densified using polymer infiltration and pyrolysis.

Conclusions:

• Anodic codeposition is a viable method for fabricating SiC-CNT composites.
• Suspension conductivity is a critical parameter for achieving firm deposits.
• Further densification enhances the properties of the resulting SiC-CNT composites.