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Reducing chemical vapour infiltration time for ceramic matrix composites
L. A. Timms1, W. Westby, C. Prentice
1Mechanical Sciences Sector, Building A7, Room 2008, DERA Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 0LX, U.K.; School of Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing Engineering and Management, University of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG7 2RD U.K.; Department of Materials Engineering, Brunel University, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, U.K.
Journal of Microscopy
|February 24, 2001
Summary
This study explores microwave-enhanced chemical vapour infiltration (MECVI) for producing silicon carbide ceramic matrix composites (SiCf/SiC). Pre-infiltration techniques significantly reduce processing time and cost while enhancing initial density.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Ceramic Matrix Composites
Background:
- Conventional ceramic matrix composite (CMC) production uses high sintering temperatures, often exceeding fiber limits.
- Chemical vapour infiltration (CVI) offers lower processing temperatures but can be time-consuming and costly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate modified CVI methods for producing SiCf/SiC composites.
- To reduce the processing time and cost of CVI for SiCf/SiC.
- To avoid fiber degradation during CMC production.
Main Methods:
- Microwave-enhanced CVI (MECVI) was employed.
- Electrophoretic infiltration and vacuum bagging were used as pre-infiltration steps.
- Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry evaluated material density.
Main Results:
- Both pre-infiltration methods enhanced initial density.
- Significant reductions in MECVI processing time were achieved.
- The presence of SiC powder in the pre-form influenced the deposition profile.
Conclusions:
- Modified MECVI with pre-infiltration is effective for SiCf/SiC production.
- These methods offer a faster, potentially cheaper alternative to conventional CVI.
- Further investigation into deposition profile changes is warranted.