Wood-derived porous SiC ceramics by sol infiltration and carbothermal reduction

A new method for transforming wood structures into ceramic by carbothermal reduction of silica and carbonized wood has been developed. Application of this technique allows the preservation of wood microstructures in the ceramic state and the conversion of wood components without constraints in component size. The chosen infiltration technique of silica sol incorporation into carbonized wood structures is examined in terms of sol and wood type, carbonization conditions of the wood,and thickness of the infiltrated carbon body. Ceramization conditions were optimized, and the reaction mechanism is discussed.