Synthesis and characterization of nano-crystalized HfC based on an aqueous solution-derived precursor

Nano-crystalized HfC was successfully synthesized based on an aqueous solution-derived precursor using hafnium tetrachloride and sucrose as raw materials. The precursor can be converted to pure phase HfC after pyrolysis at ∼600 °C and subsequent carbothermal reduction reaction at ∼1600 °C, with a ceramic yield of around 46.3%. Reaction mechanisms of the synthesis process are revealed based on FT-IR, TG-DSC, TEM analysis and thermodynamic calculations, etc. The obtained HfC nanoparticles possess an equiaxial shape with an average particle size of ∼73 nm. Oxygen content of the as-synthesized HfC powders is as low as 0.64 wt%, which exists in the form of an amorphous Hf–O–C thin layer covering the surface of the HfC particles. This feasible and promising method for HfC particle synthesis is believed to be suitable for the fabrication of continuous fibers reinforced HfC ceramic matrix composites.