Design, fabrication and characterization of high temperature joints in ceramic composites

Ceramic joining has been recognized as one of the enabling technologies for the successful utilization of ceramic components in a number of demanding, high temperature applications. Various joint design philosophies and design issues have been discussed along with an affordable, robust ceramic joining technology (ARCJoinT). A wide variety of silicon carbide-based composite materials, in different shapes and sizes, have been joined using this technology. This technique is capable of producing joints with tailorable thickness and composition. The room and high temperature mechanical properties and fractography of ceramic joints have been reported. These joints maintain their mechanical strength up to 1200 degrees C in air. This technology is suitable for the joining of large and complex shaped ceramic composite components and with certain modifications, can be applied to repair of ceramic components damaged in service.