PSI - Issue 77

Fabian Jung et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 77 (2026) 308–315 Author name / Structural Integrity Procedia 00 (2026) 000–000

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The MAXCarbon hybrid fibre is based on the in- situ formation of a Ti₃SiC₂ MAX -phase layer directly on carbon fibres through a reactive solid-state synthesis. In this concept, the carbon fibres serve both as structural reinforcement and as a chemical reactant for the formation of the ceramic boundary layer. The resulting fibre unites the tensile strength of the carbon core with the oxidation and corrosion resistance of the MAX-phase interface. A patented synthesis method was employed to transform standard high-modulus carbon textiles into MAXCarbon fibres. Controlled high-temperature treatments under tailored atmospheres initiate a targeted reaction between titanium, silicon, and the carbon fibr e surface. This reaction forms a conformal and adherent Ti₃SiC₂ layer, creating a seamless hybrid fibre. The morphology and microstructure of the hybrid fibres were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). X- ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of Ti₃SiC₂, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) assessed oxidation behaviour. Single-fibre tensile testing was used to evaluate mechanical performance and the influence of the ceramic boundary layer on fibre strength. 3. Methodology The experimental methodology adopted in this study covers the synthesis, structural verification, and preliminary performance evaluation of the MAXCarbon hybrid fibres. The overall process route is illustrated in Figure 3.1.

Figure 3.1:

Process route for the synthesis of MAXCarbon hybrid fibres