Preparation of Non-Oxide Ceramics by Pyrolysis of Organometallic Precursors

Abstract

Chemical processing routes to advanced ceramic materials are gaining importance as a convenient approach to control the stoichiometry, purity, microstructure and final form of the ceramic products [1]. The pyrolytic conversion of organometallic molecules and polymers is one such chemical processing route that has been widely applied in ceramic fiber technology [1,2], in coating processes [1,2], and in the sintering of bulk ceramic objects [3]. Despite these advances in practical applications, there is a continuing need in this area for a better fundamental understanding of the chemistry involved during the precursor-to-ceramic conversion process and for the development of new precursors which yield the desired ceramic(s) in high yield and purity.