Effect of temperature and oxidative atmosphere on the oxidation behavior of yttrium-containing ceramics

Yttrium-containing ceramics exhibit excellent resistance to water-oxygen corrosion, making them an attractive choice as the modified matrix for SiC f /SiC composites. However, the oxidation products of yttrium-containing ceramics are complex and vary widely in performance. In this study, YSOC ceramics, which are composed of yttrium silicate, SiO 2 , and SiC, were prepared using Y 2 O 3 , SiO 2 , SiC, and Li 2 CO 3 . This research investigated the effects of high temperatures, air oxidation, and water-oxygen corrosion on the phase compositions of YSOC ceramics. The influence of environmental factors on the synthesis and decomposition of yttrium silicate was analyzed. Moreover, the study explored the compatibility of different oxidation products with SiC. The results suggest that Y 2 SiO 5 and Y 2 Si 2 O 7 are formed through the low eutectic of SiO 2 , Y 2 O 3 , and Li 2 CO 3 . The high SiO 2 content likely contributes to the relatively low formation temperature of Y 2 Si 2 O 7 . In the oxidizing environment, Y 2 SiO 5 reacts with SiO 2 to produce Y 2 Si 2 O 7 . Conversely, in the water vapor-containing atmosphere, Y 2 Si 2 O 7 undergoes hydrolysis to form Y 2 SiO 5 . Y 2 Si 2 O 7 displays a reduced elastic modulus in comparison to SiC fibers and exhibits favorable physical and chemical compatibility with SiC fibers. However, the hydrolysis of Y 2 Si 2 O 7 may potentially affect the water-oxygen corrosion resistance of the ceramics. These findings will significantly advance research and enhance understanding of the water-oxygen corrosion behaviors of yttrium-containing matrix-modified composites.