A review of nanoceramic materials for use in ceramic matrix composites

Abstract

Nanoceramics are traditionally used in small-scale electronics application, but other more recent uses include larger strength-providing materials like those in aircraft engines and aerospace technology. Ceramics have recently become an ideal candidate for applications that require high temperature, high chemical resistivity, oxidation resistance, and high thermal conductivity; however, these applications are limited by the inherent brittle nature of ceramics. One step in overcoming this issue is through the use of ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), including fiber-reinforced CMCs. These systems are made up of three components, each made of nanoceramic materials. The inner reinforcing fiber, typically fabricated from polymer-derived ceramics, is composed of amorphous to nanocrystalline ceramic, and provides strength and durability for the composite. The fiber is then coated with an interface, typically applied through chemical vapor deposition. This interface allows for strengthening mechanisms in the composite including crack deflection and fiber pullout. The final component of the composite is the matrix, or the bulk material. This nanoceramic material is also produced using chemical vapor deposition and provides the bulk material and strength for the composite. This review gives an overview of continuous fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites made with chemical vapor deposited nanoceramics. Despite this non-traditional application of nanoceramics, these materials exhibit incredibly desirable characteristics for use in high temperature and high strength applications like those in the aircraft and engine industries.