Exploring the Frontiers: A Comprehensive Review on Modified Polycarbosilanes as Precursors for Advanced Inorganic Materials

Polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs), synthesized through the thermal conversion of preceramic polymers, represent a unique class of materials characterized by their remarkable amorphous nature at elevated temperatures, reaching up to 1800 °C. This unique property allows PDCs to retain the memory of their precursor organic molecular networks, opening up exciting possibilities for tailoring their macroscopic, chemical, and physical properties to meet specific requirements. Among the various preceramic polymers, polycarbosilanes stand out as crucial precursors for silicon carbide ceramics. These versatile materials have been extensively modified with metals, nonmetals, and organic groups, enabling the development of advanced ceramic materials with tailored characteristics. This comprehensive review paper provides an in-depth exploration of the synthesis strategies employed to modify polycarbosilanes, including the incorporation of various metal, nonmetal, and organic groups. Furthermore, it delves into the wide-ranging applications of these modified polycarbosilanes and the resulting ceramic materials. The synthesis routes are elucidated, offering readers a thorough understanding of the synthetic conditions and underlying reaction mechanisms. For the first time, this review comprehensively outlines the diverse applications of modified polycarbosilanes and PDCs across multiple fields, including their potential as thermal protection systems for space vehicles, advanced electrode materials in batteries, advanced filter apparatus, photocatalytic materials, and 3D printing inks for advanced ceramics. Finally, the review concludes by discussing future directions and opportunities for advancing modified PCS in terms of applications, chemistries, and synthesis methods.