Oxidation behaviour of HfB2-15 vol.% TaSi2 at low, intermediate and high temperatures

The thermal stability of a HfB2-15 vol.% TaSi2 composite was tested by thermogravimetric analysis from 25 to 1500 degrees C, in a bottom-up furnace at 1600 degrees C for 15 min and in an arc-jet facility at temperatures between 2000 and 2500 degrees C. The layered scales resulting from arc-jet and conventional furnace oxidation are very similar. The flexural strength does not change after oxidation at 1600 degrees C. The effect of TaSi2 on the oxidation resistance is investigated. (C) 2010 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.