Carbon nanofibers–SiO2 composites: Preparation and characterization

Abstract

A method has been developed for preparing carbon fibers–SiO2 composites using oligomethylhydridesiloxane (OMHS) as the precursor for SiO2. The presence of active hydrogen in OMHS made it possible to attain chemical interaction between the surface of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and the applied silicon oxide layer. The oxidation rate of CNF–SiO2 composite is found to be lower by about one order of magnitude compared to that of the as-synthesized CNF. The thermal stability of CNF–SiO2 composites has been studied. Under an inert atmosphere, CNF–SiO2 composite has thermal stability up to 1300°C. At temperatures above 1350°C, silicon carbide (SiC) fibers are formed as a result of the carbothermal reduction of silicon oxide.