Chemical and morphological analysis of sol-derived KCa2Nb3O10

The chemical and morphological properties of a sol-derived layered perovski te compound, KCa2Nb3O10 (KCN), are presented. Development of this compound is motivated by its use as an interphase fiber-coating material for ceramic matrix composites (CMC's), In such systems, this material is to be placed between the fiber and matrix to control crack propagation in the vicinity o f the fiber, thereby enhancing toughness. Comparative analyses are performe d between known bulk specimens of KCN and the sol-derived product using tra nsmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS ), The suitability of the sol-derived KCN for CMC applications is demonstra ted through microstructure and chemical composition similar to that of the known bulk KCN samples.