Polymer-derived ceramic (PDC) technology is increasingly important in advanced ceramic and high-temperature structural applications. IOTA 9108 Organopolysilazane is a ceramifiable precursor polymer capable of crosslinking under moderate conditions and converting into high-temperature-resistant SiCN-based ceramics upon pyrolysis.

1. Product Overview

IOTA 9108 is a liquid polymer composed of repeating Si–N backbone units, functioning both as a thermosetting resin and as a ceramic precursor.

It features:

• Crosslinking at 120–180°C

• Catalytic curing at 80–100°C (Pt-catalyzed hydrosilylation)

• Conversion into SiCN ceramics under high-temperature pyrolysis

With solid content >99% and low viscosity (10–30 cP), it is suitable for impregnation, coating, and composite processing.

2. Curing and Ceramic Conversion Mechanism

Curing Stage

Two curing routes are available:

• Thermal crosslinking (120–180°C) in air or inert atmosphere

• Platinum-catalyzed hydrosilylation (80–100°C)

Typical curing time: 2–5 hours, depending on temperature and catalyst loading.

Pyrolysis and Ceramic Formation

After curing, the material undergoes thermal conversion:

• Below 1400°C: amorphous ceramic formation

• Above 1400°C: onset of crystallization

Atmosphere-dependent ceramic composition:

• Nitrogen / Argon: SiC + Si₃N₄

• Ammonia: predominantly Si₃N₄

• Air: mainly SiOCN

Ceramic yield at 800°C: >55%
Ceramic yield of cured material at 800°C: >75%
Ceramic density: 1.60–2.00 g/cm³

The material can withstand temperatures up to 1500°C.

3. Key Features

• Low viscosity for easy processing

• Multiple curing pathways

• High ceramic yield

• Strong adhesion to metals, ceramics, and graphite

• Suitable for SiCN ceramic preparation

• High-temperature resistance

The polymer is sensitive to moisture and alcohols and should be protected from protic substances such as water, acids, and bases.

4. Applications

IOTA 9108 is suitable for:

• Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)

• Metal Matrix Composites

• High-temperature adhesives

• Anti-oxidation ceramic coatings

• Corrosion-resistant coatings

• Impregnation of ceramic preforms

• Organic–inorganic hybrid materials

With its controlled curing and tunable ceramic conversion behavior, IOTA 9108 serves as a versatile precursor for advanced high-temperature material systems.