A new approach to silicon carbide fibers and ceramics is proposed. A novel chemical synthesis produces an ideal Si-C polymer backbone with alternating atoms of silicon and carbon, e.g., CH3SiH2 (CH2SiH2) CH2CH3. The synthesis involves the reductive couping of a halo-organosilicon compound with a reactive metal, such as magnesium, sodium and lithium in an organic solvent. Methyl chloride in calculated amounts as end-blocker is used to control the molecular weight to produce the desirable physical properties, such as for film and fiber forming or for molding into a sturdy object. Subsequent pyrolysis of this Si-C polymer precursor is expected to give high yield of the silicon carbide ceramic material.The potential commercial application as described by the awardee: This novel synthetic method for silicon carbide fibers and ceramics utilizes starting reagents and chemicals which are commercially available. The successful development of this new approach can readily provide a commercial process for the large scale production of this important class of silicon carbide ceramic material. Solarelectronics, Inc., is primarily an R&D firm specializing in silicon materials.
