RADIATION-RESISTANT CERAMIC-MATRIX COMPOSITES

Ceramic matrix composites are of interest for nuclear applications bec ause of their high-temperature properties, corrosion resistance, fract ure toughness relative to monolithic ceramics, and low neutron activat ion and after heat. Evaluations of the radiation resistance of commerc ially available SiC/SiC composites have revealed their promise for thi s application, but also the need for further development to achieve th e desired performance. This paper summarizes the results of a workshop cosponsored by the Offices of Fusion Energy and Basic Energy Sciences of the US Department of Energy and Lockheed-Martin Corporation with f orty attendees from national laboratories, universities and industry. A number of promising routes for optimizing the radiation stability of ceramic matrix composites were identified at this workshop. These rou tes included the newer, more stoichiometric fibers and alternate fiber /matrix interfaces and matrix processing routes.