Creep and Fatigue Behavior in an Enhanced SiC/SiC Composite at High Temperature

The monotonic tension, creep, and fatigue behavior of an enhanced SiC/SiC composite was investigated at a temperature of 1300°C in air and argon. The improved creep and fatigue resistances were determined and compared to those of the standard SiC/SiC composite. The effects of additives (glass‐forming, boron‐based particulates) in the matrix on the creep and environmental resistance of the enhanced SiC/SiC composite were discussed. Crack propagation in the matrix of the enhanced SiC/SiC composite was different from that in the standard SiC/SiC composite. The filling of the glassy phases in the cracks prohibited the diffusion of oxygen from the environment. As a result, creep and fatigue properties in the enhanced SiC/SiC composite in air at high temperatures was improved.