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Hybrid Three-Dimensional SiC/C High Thermal Conductivity Composites--MER Corporation, 7960 South Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85706; 520-574-1980
Dr. Witold Kowbel, Principal Investigator
Mr. R.. O. Loutfy, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-99ER82823
Amount: $100,000
To provide improved strength and toughness, continuous fiber reinforced silicon carbide (SiC) composites (SiC-SiC), being developed primarily for advanced aerospace applications, are being examined for fusion reactor applications. Unfortunately, while the thermomechanical properties of SiC-SiC can be improved over that of monolithic SiC, the thermal conductivity is significantly reduced. This project will develop a hybrid three-dimensional SiC/C composite in which a high thermal conductivity carbon fiber (Z direction) is used to improve the thermal conductivity. This system appears to have potential for improving through-the-thickness thermal conductivity, while maintaining composite properties upon irradiation. In Phase I, an SiC fabric, produced by chemical vapor reaction, will be used for X-Y reinforcement while K-1100 fibers will be used as Z-reinforcement. A high conductivity SiC-matrix, fabricated with a hybrid process that combines chemical vapor infiltration with polymer infiltration and pyrolosis, will also be used. Each composite will be characterized with respect to microstructure as well as thermal and mechanical properties.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The key benefit is for the fusion program. Commercial applications also exist in such energy related fields as heat exchangers.