Progress in oxide composites

The desire for increased temperatures and durability in myriad power and processing systems has driven research on oxide-oxide composites. As with all ceramic composites, these materials require a crack deflecting mechanism to prevent brittle failure. Both porous matrices and fiber coatings have been shown to perform this function. Composites containing interface coatings are still in the research stage, while porous-matrix materials are production items and are being evaluated in a variety of applications. Although current technology composites offer very attractive properties, significant improvement can be expected in future systems. In this paper, the status of the technology for high-temperature (> 1000 degrees C) oxide-oxide composites is reviewed and prospects for future developments discussed.