On high temperature mechanical and fracture properties of an Al203 /SiCw ceramic matrix composite

High temperature mechanical and fracture propedies of an AI203SiC(w) ceramic matrix composite containing 30 vol pct SiC whiskers in an alumina matrix in 1200 C argon almosphere are presented. At 1200 C, the mechanical properties show strong strain rate dependence, with the modulus of elasticity, the fracture stress, and apparent K(Ic) measurements from two four-point bend tests at ambient temperature. Specimens tested at 5 micron/min strain rate al 1200 C in argon showed extensive cracking, crack nucleation, and growth. The overall crack growth rates increased with increasing strain rate. (Author)