A metal powder is applied to the surface of the area of a carbon-carbon composite brake disc to be protected against migration of antioxidant. The metal powder may be titanium powder or tungsten powder. A chemical reaction between the metal powder and carbon is then initiated by heating the powder-coated brake to the ignition temperature via application of electric current (Joule preheating) or by heating it in a furnace. Upon combustion, the metal particles react with carbon in the composite, forming liquid carbide that flows into pores of the composite brake disc to be protected.