Oxidation of ZrB₂ Ceramics Containing SiC as Particles, Whiskers, or Short Fibers

The thermal stability of ZrB₂‐based composites containing SiC‐chopped fibers was tested in a bottom‐up furnace at 1200°C, 1500°C, and 1700°C for 30 min. The oxidation behavior was studied by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and weight gain. The degradation induced by oxidation was also evaluated considering the strength decrease of oxidized bars. Baseline ZrB₂‐composites containing the same amount of SiC particles or SiC whiskers were tested in the same conditions for comparison.