The effect of a weak W/SiC interface on the strength of sigma silicon carbide monofilament

Fractography studies have shown that the strength-determining flaws in silicon carbide monofilaments are generally at the core/silicon carbide interface or in the vicinity of the outside, carbon-based coating. In tungsten-cored monofilaments like DERA Sigma, the W/SiC flaws primarily determine the strength. Fracture is accompanied by brittle failure of the tungsten. The crack propagates simultaneously outwards through the silicon carbide, inwards through the tungsten and also around the W/SiC interface before being deflected into the tungsten or out through the silicon carbide. Experiments depositing boundary layers between the tungsten and silicon carbide have resulted in significantly different fracture behaviour. The tungsten fails in a ductile manner and the strength-determining flaws are located predominantly at the outside surface of the silicon carbide. This behaviour is discussed in terms of models proposed by E. Martin and W. Curtin. It is thought that the work will ultimately lead to a significantly stronger, tungsten-based monofilament.