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An Improved Reaction-Bonded Silicon Carbide Process for SiC/SiC Composites--TDA Research, Inc., 12345 West 52nd Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033-1917; 303-940-2300
Mr. Jack Sibold, Principal Investigator
Mr. John D. Wright, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-98ER82689
Amount: $750,000
Fusion technology has potential as a future energy source that is secure, clean, and limitless. Ceramic matrix composites, such as silicon carbide (SiC) reinforced with silicon carbide fibers, are being considered for structural applications in these reactors. However, there is a need for greater hermeticity, higher thermal conductivity, and lower manufacturing costs. This project addresses these needs by using chemical vapor infiltration to modify commercial reaction-bonded silicon carbide in order to produce a SiC/SiC composite with a high fiber density. In Phase I, a slurry-infiltration, reaction-bonded silicon carbide matrix, based on a commercial slip-cast, reaction-bonded silicon carbide process, was developed. The resultant matrix quality was evaluated microscopically, and the process was found to have achieved a dense, hermetic, silicon carbide material. In Phase II, the reaction-bonded slurry infiltration process will be optimized, the material properties will be measured, and prototype parts will be fabricated.
Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The production of dense SiC/SiC composites with improved fiber density, higher thermal conductivity and hermeticity, made by a low-cost process, should provide structural components for fusion reactor applications. Other applications include advanced turbine engines or other applications affected by corrosion, erosion, and high temperatures.