The application of ceramic-matrix composites to the automotive ceramic gasturbine

A Japanese 100 kW automotive ceramic gas turbine (CGT) project was started in 1990 and was concluded successfully in 1997. This project was supported by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry and was conducted by th e Petroleum Energy Center to achieve the targets of this project such as hi gher thermal efficiency over 40% at a turbine inlet temperature of 1350 deg rees C, lower exhaust emissions to meet Japanese regulations, and multi-fue l capabilities. Ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) are expected to become one of the most reliable materials for high-temperature use to make up for the deficient properties of monolithic ceramics and heat-resistant alloys. Car bon fiber, silicon nitride fiber, silicon carbide fiber, silicon carbide wh isker, in situ silicon nitride, TiB2/milled carbon fiber were used as reinf orcements for silicon carbide, Si-N-C, SiAlON and silicon nitride matrix co mposites. Higher mechanical properties tested by the developed testing stan dards, and reliability against thermal shock, particle impact damage and cr eep resistance were confirmed to apply these CMCs for engine components. Se veral screening test steps were performed before the engine tests and these confirmed that CMC had strong potential for actual engine components. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.