Pressure-less joining of C/SiC and SiC/SiC by a MoSi2/Si composite

A MoSi2/Si composite obtained in situ by reaction of silicon and molybdenum at 1450 degrees C in Ar flow is proposed as pressure-less joining material for C/SiC and SiC/SiC composites. A new "Mo-wrap" technique was developed to form the joining material and to control silicon infiltration in porous composites. MoSi2/Si composite joining material infiltration inside coated and uncoated C/SiC and SiC/SiC composites, as well as its microstructure and interfacial reactions were studied. Preliminary mechanical strength of joints was tested at room temperature and after aging at service temperatures, resulting in interlaminar failure of the composites in most cases.