An Improved Reaction-Bonded Silicon Carbide Process for SiC/SiC Composites--TDA Research, Inc., 12345 West 52nd Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033-1916; (303) 940-2300
Mr. Jack Sibold, Principal Investigator
Mr. John D. Wright, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-98ER82689
Amount: $75,000

The Department of Energy has a need for economical hermetic composites with higher thermal conductivity for structural applications in fusion reactors. This project will address this need by using a modification of a commercial reaction bonded silicon carbide and chemical vapor infiltration process to produce a SiC/SiC composite with a dense matrix. The objective is to develop a slurry infiltration reaction bonded silicon carbide matrix and then to use it in conjunction with an economical commercial slip cast reaction bonded silicon carbide process to reduce cost. Matrix quality will be evaluated microscopically and by flexural strength testing.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Successful completion of the project will result in the production of dense SiC/SiC composites with improved density, thermal conductivity and hermeticity that is made by a low cost process. This project will provide a process for making structural components for fusion reactor applications as well as for other applications for advanced turbine engines, corrosion, erosion and high temperature applications.