Processing and properties of carbon nanotubes–nano-SiC ceramic

Carbon nanotubes–nano-SiC ceramic has been fabricated by the hot-press method. The preparation steps involved the use of dispersing nano-SiC powders and carbon nanotubes in butylalcohol using an ultrasonic shaker. The reasonable relative density of about 95% has been achieved by hot-pressing at 2273 K (at 25 MPa in Ar for 1 h). The three-point bending strength and fracture toughness of the composite has about 10% increment over monolithic SiC ceramic which was fabricated under the same process. The reasons for the increment are the strengthening and toughening role of carbon nanotubes occuring in the matrix.