Carbon-carbon (C-C) composites exhibit excellent mechanical, thermal and chemical properties. Poor oxidation resistance at temperatures as low as 550°C is the key technical barrier, while very high cost is the key commercial barrier hindering wider spreading of this technology. MER has developed a one-step process enabling the fabrication of quality C-C composites under $100/lb. In addition, a novel approach to the oxidation protection was devised based upon intrinsic, internal oxidation protection for fabric-based composites (no coatings). Internal inhibitors were developed providing excellent oxidation protection (up to 200 hours of isothermal oxidation in air at 600°C with no mass loss was demonstrated). Excellent oxidation protection is combined with low-cost and retention of mechanical properties.
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