Design and evaluation of fiber/matrix interface for advanced SiC/SiC composites

Nozawa, Takashi; Kato, Yutai*; Snead, L. L.*

This study aims to identify the effect of neutron irradiation on the fiber/matrix interface of advanced SiC/SiC composites. A single fiber push-out test was applied to evaluate the shear properties at the interface. The results indicate that the interfacial shear strength depends significantly on the irradiation temperature and neutron dose up to 7.7 dpa at 1080C. It is worth noting that no major deterioration of the bulk strength of the composites is expected by the slight decrease of interfacial shear properties. This paper will report the general guideline to design irradiation resistant fiber/matrix interface and critical issues for further development will be discussed.