CERAMIC BODIES AND METHODS FOR MAKING THE SAME

Ceramic bodies may be prepared using a combination of thin structure formation techniques and metal oxidation techniques. Specifically, a thin form is provided comprising at least one parent metal, at least one organic or inorganic fiber, and optionally comprising at least one inorganic filler material. The thin form may then be infiltrated with a liquid or fusible composition such as a polyureasilazane to increase the flexibility and formability of the thin form. The thin form may then be shaped or configured, either individually or in stacks, and rigidized to form for example, a selfsupporting structure. The thin form may then be heated to a temperature above the melting point of the parent metal to react the molten parent metal in situ with an oxidant to form an oxidation reaction product, which is at least partially three-dimensionally interconnected to form a thin ceramic body in a desired shape or configuration.