Issue
J. Phys. IV France
Volume 123, March 2005
Page(s) 3 - 17
DOI https://doi.org/10.1051/jp4:2005123001


J. Phys. IV France 123 (2005) 3-17

DOI: 10.1051/jp4:2005123001

Recent advances in the field of ceramic fibers and ceramic matrix composites

R. Naslain

Laboratoire des Composites Thermostructuraux, Université Bordeaux 1, 3 allée de La Boétie, 33600 Pessac, France


Abstract
Progress achieved during the last decade in the field of ceramic fibers and related ceramic matrix composites is reviewed. Both SiC-based and alumina-based fine fibers have been improved in terms of thermal stability and creep resistance with temperature limit of about 1400 and 1200 $^{\circ}$C, respectively. Two concepts for achieving damage-tolerant ceramic matrix composites have been identified : (i) that of non-oxide composites with a dense matrix in which matrix cracks formed under load are deflected and arrested in a weak fiber coating referred to as the interphase and (ii) that of all-oxide composites with a highly porous matrix with no need of any fiber coating. The lifetime under load of non-oxide composites in oxidizing atmospheres, is improved through the use of multilayered self-healing interphases and matrices deposited from gaseous precursors by chemical vapor infiltration (CVI). Lifetime ranging from 1000 to 10,000 hours at 1200 $^{\circ}$C under cyclic loading in air are foreseen. Alumina-based composites although attractive for long term exposures in oxidizing atmospheres up to $\approx$1200 $^{\circ}$C, are still experimental materials.



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