On high temperature mechanical and fracture properties of an Al sub 2 O sub 3 /SiC sub w ceramic matrix composite

A broad research programme is currently being undertaken in Australia to study the high-temperature properties of a series of ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). Some preliminary results for a composite material containing 30 vol.% SiC whiskers in an alumina matrix have been reported. The mechanical properties and crack growth behaviour at 1200 deg C in argon atmosphere were examined. Both optical microscopy and SEM were employed. Results indicate that the creep deformation and extensive crack formation that limit the performance of SiC whisker-reinforced alumina at temperatures approx1200 deg C in air are also operative in a practical inert atmosphere.