Polymer to ceramic transformations

The simplest way to follow the polymer-to-ceramic transformation process is by solid state MAS 29Si NMR spectroscopy. Thus, Figure 7 shows the MAS 29Si NMR spectra of samples of copolymer heated to selected temperatures in N2. Figure 8 provides an integration of the various species and how the relative amounts of each change on pyrolysis. 

Polymer to Ceramic Transformation Processing of Ceramic Bodies and Thin Films... 

Polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs) represent a rather novel class of ceramics which can be synthesized via cross-linking and pyrolysis of suitable polymeric precursors. In the last decades, PDCs have been attaining increased attention due to their outstanding ultrahigh-temperature properties, such as stability with respect to decomposition and crystallization processes as well as resistance in oxidative and corrosive environments. Moreover, their creep resistance is excellent at temperatures far beyond 1000 °C. The properties of PDCs were shown to be strongly related to their microstructure (network topology) and phase composition, which are determined by the chemistry and molecular structure of the polymeric precursor used and by the conditions of the polymer-to-ceramic transformation. 

Against the pores formation as well as shrinkage during polymer-to-ceramic transformation, active and passive fillers can be used. Moreover, the fillers can have a strong influence on the mechanical, electrical and thermal conductivity, oxidation and thermal shock resistance, etc of the ceramics. 

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