SOL-GEL PROCESSING OF FIBER-REINFORCED CERAMIC SHAPES

This paper reviews the current joint research programme between the Sc hool of Materials Science of the University of Bath and Ceramic Develo pments (Midlands) Ltd, Corby, into the manufacture of ceramic matrix c omposites by the sol-gel technique. Development of low shrinkage (<4%) sol-gel derived matrices has allowed near-net size and shape componen ts to be fabricated by the use of conventional fibre-reinforced plasti cs technology such as filament winding, resin transfer and injection m oulding. A processing route which involves freeze gelation to form a h ighly porous matrix which is subsequently densified by repeated pressu reless liquid phase infiltration is outlined. Preliminary tests have y ielded elastic moduli to 110 GPa and densities to 2.3 g/cm3 with Nexte l fibre reinforcement. (C) 1993 The Institute of Materials.