Polymer Derived Ceramics and Applications

Dear Colleagues,

The polymer-derived ceramic (PDC) route is based on the synthesis of preceramic polymers as suitable and highly pure synthetic precursors to supply after pyrolysis ceramics with a desired phase distribution and homogeneity. Additionally, the PDC route allows for polymer shaping to produce, after pyrolysis, complex-shaped ceramic parts, such as (nano)fibers, coatings, or dense pieces. Ceramics with various pore scales can be also made from them. Following a more conventional ceramic processing route, preceramic polymers can be directly pyrolyzed into ceramic powders with the desired composition, to be sintered into dense objects. This route leads to three classes of products: 1) amorphous networks, containing the constituents, homogeneously dispersed at the atomic level; 2) crystalline phases; and 3) composites and nanocomposites of binary or multinary phases, that provide a large variety of properties and functions for basic research and application technologies, from energy and environment to transportation, aerospace, and defense applications.

This Special Issue aims to provide a range of comprehensive reviews and research articles on advances in the synthesis and application of PDCs. The scientific issues related to the synthesis and application of PDCs include the molecular chemistry and engineering of processable and functional preceramic polymers, polymer processing and shaping through in particular innovating processes, such as additive manufacturing, advanced and innovative polymer-to-ceramic conversion methods, special nano/microstructure features of PDCs, modeling and thermodynamics of PDCs and functional properties. Papers that emphasize applications of PDCs are also welcomed.

Dr. Samuel Bernard
Dr. Emanuel Ionescu
Guest Editors

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