Structure evolution and high-temperature performance of SiZrOC ceramics for thermal insulation

Zirconium-doped SiOC (SiZrOC) ceramics with different Zr/Si molar ratios were fabricated through a thiol-ene cross-linking reaction followed by pyrolysis for high-temperature thermal insulation. The zirconium could be incorporated into the amorphous SiOC network when the Zr/Si molar ratio was below 0.25. The addition of zirconium can impede further decomposition of amorphous SiZrOC network, thereby significantly enhancing the high-temperature stability (above 1400°C). The SiZrOC-0.25 ceramics with octet truss structures were fabricated by digital light processing followed by pyrolysis at 1000°C, which exhibited a compressive strength of 6.42 ± 1.74 MPa even after heat treatment at 1400°C for 6 h under air atmosphere. The back temperature of the SiZrOC-0.25 ceramic was 205°C after exposure to 800°C for 20 min. Thus, the SiZrOC ceramics developed in this work are likely suitable for high-temperature thermal insulation, particularly in aerobic environments. Graphical abstract