Silicon Carbide Special Ceramics: Pioneering the New Era of High - Performance Materials

In materials science, silicon carbide special ceramics, known for remarkable properties, are vital for modern industry and advanced technologies, reshaping multiple industries.

I. Silicon Carbide: The Super - Strong “Bond” between Atoms

Silicon carbide, made of silicon and carbon via covalent bonds, has a stable crystal structure. It has a Mohs hardness of 9.2 - 9.5, excellent wear resistance, and can endure over 1600 °C while maintaining strength and chemical stability. Its thermal conductivity surpasses ordinary ceramics, comparable to copper in some cases. It’s also stable in corrosive environments.

II. Preparation Process: From Powder to High - Quality Product

Producing silicon carbide special ceramics requires raw material processing, shaping, and sintering. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and sol - gel techniques are used to get high - purity powders. Shaping methods include dry pressing, isostatic pressing, and injection molding. For instance, injection molding mixes powders with binders to create complex, high - precision green bodies. Hot - pressing, pressure - less, and reaction sintering are common. Hot - pressing sintering reduces temperature and time, improving ceramic density and mechanical properties.

III. Diverse Applications: Reshaping the Future of Industries

Aerospace: The “Protective Gear” Challenging Extremes

In aerospace, silicon carbide ceramics make engine components and thermal protection systems. Aviation engines operate under harsh conditions. The ceramics’ high hardness, heat resistance, and low density reduce engine weight, boost thrust - to - weight ratio, and ensure component reliability. In thermal protection systems, they withstand re - entry heat.

New Energy Vehicles: Driving Green Mobility

As new energy vehicles develop, high - performance materials are in demand. Silicon carbide ceramics, with high thermal conductivity and wear resistance, are used in braking and thermal management systems. Ceramic brake discs cut weight and energy use, enhancing braking safety. Ceramic - based heat exchangers regulate battery and motor temperatures, extending their lifespan.

Semiconductor Manufacturing: The “Cornerstone” of High Precision

The semiconductor industry demands top - quality materials. Silicon carbide ceramics, with high hardness, chemical stability, and low thermal expansion, are ideal for wafer carriers and etching equipment components. They support wafers for precise positioning and operate stably in corrosive gas and plasma environments, ensuring etching accuracy.

IV. Future Outlook: New Materials with Infinite Possibilities

As technology advances, silicon carbide ceramics’ applications will expand. Researchers will explore new processes to enhance performance, cut costs, and promote wider use. Hybridizing with metals and polymers will be a focus, aiming to develop better composite materials and drive innovation in fields like AI, quantum computing, and biomedicine.

【 Go Back 】 | 【 Print 】