FUSION-REACTOR APPLICATION ISSUES FOR LOW-ACTIVATION SIC SIC COMPOSITES/

Silicon carbide composites are attractive for fusion applications beca use of their low activation and afterheat properties coupled with exce llent high-temperature properties. Their application will require mate rial development and an expanded data base as well as evaluation for h igh-temperature stability, chemical compatibility with fusion relevant coolants, thermal conductivity, thermal fatigue and shock, hermetic p roperties, joining methodology and radiation stability. Preliminary da ta suggest that commercially available material has adequate performan ce for some requirements in its present form or that there are identif iable routes to improve the performance. This paper summarizes SiC/SiC behavior relative to some performance requirements and identifies are as where further research is needed.