Formation, characterization, and properties of radiopaque TaC–C/C and ZrO₂–C/C composites

TaC-carbon/carbon composites and ZrO₂-carbon/carbon composites were prepared by liquid-phase infiltration. Microstructure, phase, flexural strength, and radiopacity were examined using a scanning electron microscope, an X-ray diffractometer, an electronic universal testing machine, and a dental X-ray unit. Results showed that ZrO₂ and TaC phases were formed in carbon/carbon composites during heat treatment because of decomposition and the reaction between Ta₂O₅ and C. The surface micrograph showed that TaC and ZrO₂ particles were embedded in the carbon matrix. TaC-carbon/carbon composites and ZrO₂-carbon/carbon composites displayed pseudoductile fracture behavior. Radiopaque properties of TaC-carbon/carbon composites and ZrO₂-carbon/carbon composites increased with increased concentration of ethylate tantalum and zirconium acetate solutions. At 15 wt% concentration of these solutions, carbon/carbon composites were visible in biomedical X-ray.