I. Material Nature and Chemical Properties
Polysilazanes are a class of inorganic-organic hybrid polymers with a backbone composed of alternating silicon (Si) and nitrogen (N). In their molecular structure, silicon atoms are linked by nitrogen atoms, and side chains can carry organic groups such as hydrogen and methyl groups. Based on their structural differences, they can be divided into two main categories: organopolysilazanes (OPSZ) and perhydropolysilazanes (PHPS). The former contain organic groups in their side chains, while the latter are composed solely of Si, N, and H.
The core properties of this material stem from its unique Si-N bond:
High thermal stability: It can withstand temperatures exceeding 1800°C, begins to semi-ceramicize at 400-500°C, and transforms into dense SiCN or SiCNO ceramics at 800-1300°C. After curing, it achieves a hardness exceeding 8H. Chemical inertness: Its structure is stable in acid, alkali, salt spray, and high-energy radiation environments, with a dielectric strength ≥10⁵V/mm, making it suitable for extreme environments.
Ceramicization: Through high-temperature pyrolysis, it can produce ceramic materials such as silicon dioxide and silicon nitride, achieving a transformation from organic to inorganic.

II. Application Areas and Technological Breakthroughs
Polysilazane's excellent properties make it a key material in aerospace, semiconductors, new energy, and other fields:
Aerospace: NASA's Mars rover sensor housings and SpaceX's Starship engine throat linings are both coated with polysilazane-based ceramics, which can withstand transient temperatures of 3000°C.
Semiconductor Manufacturing: As a key insulating coating material for chips with a process size of less than 5nm, it provides efficient electromagnetic shielding. Its products from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have been used in Yangtze Memory's 3D NAND chips.
New Energy: Modified proton exchange membranes can increase the operating temperature of hydrogen fuel cells. The new generation Toyota Mirai has begun road testing.
Daily Industrial Applications: Thermal barrier coatings for automotive exhaust pipes and aircraft engine turbine blades, and weather-resistant coatings for photovoltaic panels, among other applications.

III. Technical Barriers and Domestic Production Progress
The global polysilazane market has long been monopolized by companies such as Merck of Germany and Clariant of Switzerland. High-end products must achieve a purity of 99.999%, a synthesis temperature control accuracy of ±2°C, and a catalyst ratio error of ≤0.1%. Domestic institutions such as the Institute of Chemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Hangzhou Qingci New Materials have achieved breakthroughs in low- and mid-range mass production technologies. A 600°C heat-resistant coating developed by China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) has been applied to the anti-skid coating of aircraft carrier decks. Si-C-N ceramic fibers produced by companies in Xi'an have a tensile strength of 3.2 GPa.