Optimizing Cf/ZrB2–SiC Composites for Aerospace TPS via Density-Normalized Performance
International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology, vol.23, no.4, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 23 Issue: 4
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1111/ijac.70254
- Journal Name: International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Aerospace Database, Applied Science & Technology Source, Chemical Abstracts Core, Compendex, INSPEC, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO), Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest)
- Keywords: density-normalized mechanical properties, fiber architecture, multiobjective selection, multipurpose performance evaluation, ZrB2–SiC composites
- Hakkari University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
In this study, the mechanical performance of ZrB2–SiC-based carbon fiber-reinforced composites was evaluated using a design-oriented framework, focusing on the effects of fiber architecture (long/short fibers) and rheology modifier (RM) addition. Elastic modulus, Vickers hardness, and fracture toughness were first assessed using raw experimental data, followed by density-normalized metrics to decouple density-related effects. The relationships between density-normalized properties were qualitatively assessed to clarify interproperty synergies, and a trade-off analysis using a multiobjective selection approach was subsequently employed to evaluate performance pathways among the investigated design cases. The results show that mechanical performance cannot be explained solely by relative density; instead, fiber architecture and RM addition introduce clear trade-offs among stiffness, hardness, and toughness through microstructural arrangement. Short-fiber systems incorporating RM exhibit more stable and efficient mechanical performance without a density penalty. Based on these findings, design rules are proposed to guide the selection of optimal fiber architecture and reinforcement strategies for ZrB2–SiC-based advanced ceramics for specific application objectives.