Challenging ceramic matrix composites for applications in severe environments

Non-brittle ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) consisting of a ceramic matrix reinforced with continuous fibers, such as the SiC/SiC composites, exhibit outstanding mechanical properties, when properly processed. Tensile failure stress as high as 400 MPa, tensile failure strain close to 1% and energy release rate of the order of several 10 KJ&middotm-2 are currently achieved for 2D-SiC/PyC/SiC. The main subject of concern is probably the effect of oxidizing environment under loading. The present status of knowledge and further improvements of the materials are presented and discussed.