Low Temperature Processing of Boron Carbide Cement Composite for Tough, Wear Resistant Structures
Abstract
This SBIR project has developed a low temperature polymer ceramic composite consisting of boron carbide layers bonded by cement, laminated with polymer sheets. The porosity of the ceramic was minimized by in situ hydrolysis of cement. The material has a layered structure designed to exploit the wear resistant properties of the ceramic and improve the toughness of the composite. The processing method is net shape, allowing large areas of material to be draped over forms for shaping prior to curing. The material is also easily cut to size before curing. Following curing the material is laminated with polymer sheets - a process which can be performed at temperatures as low as 150 deg C depending on the polymer used. The wear properties of the composite have been shown to compare favorably to those of partially sintered boron carbide. Applications for this material have been identified in several industrial settings including duct, chute and hopper linings. There is also a possible application as a satellite thermal control coating. Follow-on research would target several of these applications to identify the perceived weaknesses of current technologies and test the new composite in these capacities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA344915
Entities
People
- Erik P. Luther
- Kristen J. Law