Laser-based manufacturing of ceramic matrix composites

A novel fabrication route for ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) was investigated. This was based on laser-induced melting of a Y-Si-0 matrix between SiC fibers. Scanning electron microscopy studies showed that melting and solidification of the matrix is possible without damaging the fibers. Thus, the feasibility of the process in principle was demonstrated. Due to the strong inhomogeneities in the microstructure, samples were prepared for mechanical characterization using FAST / SPS. Bending and tensile tests were performed on them at room temperature and at 1000 ' C in air atmosphere. The mechanical behavior was damage tolerant and showed the dependencies between strength and fiber orientation typical for CMC.