IOTA 9120 is a liquid preceramic polymer composed of repeating Si–N and Si–N–B structural units. It belongs to the family of functional polymers designed for controlled transformation from organic macromolecules into inorganic ceramic materials.
Unlike conventional silicone resins, IOTA 9120 serves both as a curable thermosetting resin and a ceramic precursor, enabling a unique combination of processability and high-temperature performance.
1. From Polymer to Ceramic: Thermal Transformation Behavior
IOTA 9120 exhibits a well-defined transformation pathway:
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At 120–180°C
Crosslinking and curing occur under air or inert atmosphere
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At 80–100°C (Pt-catalyzed system)
Hydrosilylation curing enables low-temperature processing
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Above 800°C
Conversion into amorphous ceramic begins
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Above 1600°C
Crystallization occurs, forming stable ceramic phases
Final ceramic composition depends strongly on the pyrolysis atmosphere:
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N2 / Ar → SiC + Si3N4
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NH3 → Si3N4 dominant
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Air → SiBOCN ceramic system
This enables tunable ceramic architectures.
2. Key Material Features
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Low-viscosity liquid precursor for easy processing
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Multiple curing pathways (thermal and catalytic)
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High ceramic yield (>50%)
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Strong adhesion to metals, ceramics, and graphite
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Excellent conversion into dense high-temperature structures
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Suitable for hybrid material systems
These properties make it highly valuable for advanced material engineering.
3. Application Fields
IOTA 9120 is widely used in:
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Ceramic matrix composites (CMC)
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Metal matrix composite interfaces
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High-temperature structural adhesives
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Anti-oxidation coatings
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Protective ceramic coatings
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Precursor infiltration for ceramic preforms
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Organic-inorganic hybrid systems
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Thermosetting resin systems
4. Processing & Handling Notes
IOTA 9120 is soluble in dry organic solvents but highly sensitive to moisture and alcohols:
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Avoid water and alcohol exposure
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Avoid acidic or alkaline environments
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Use anhydrous processing conditions
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Fully cured material is insoluble
Cleaning recommendation:
Tools should be cleaned immediately with acetone or compatible solvents before curing occurs; once cured, removal is not possible.
