Advanced HfC-TaC Oxidation Resistant Composite Rocket Thruster

Oxidation of refractory metallic coatings on carbon fibers heated up to 1850°C

“…Since tantalum oxide stabilizes tetragonal hafnia, it is useful during cooling in order to prevent the tetragonal/monoclinic transition at about 1750°C. Indeed, this transition is accompanied by a 3.5% volume increase and results in the formation of cracks in the coating [1][2][3].…”

Phase composition and morphology of TaC coating on carbon fibers by chemical vapor infiltration

“…However, coating suffers from several disadvantages such as easily appeared cracks due to CTE mismatch with substrate; and doping only provides good protection up to 700°C. That leaves carbon fibers reinforced ceramic composite as the most promising material [11][12][13][14][15].…”

Corrosion of Ceramic Materials

“…Currently, there is a good deal of interest in HfC for rocket thrusters (Patterson, 1996). Shimada et al (1997) have examined the oxidation of HfC from 600 to 900°C.…”

“…These materials are under consideration for rocket thrusters (Patterson et al, 1996) and ZrC is important in nuclear applications (Rama Rao and Venugopal, 1994). …”