Non-destructive mechanical characterization of SiC fibers by Raman spectroscopy

The paper provides a comprehensive study on Raman spectroscopy versatility as a fast and non destructive tool for the prediction of the mechanical pro perties of SiC fibers derived from a polymeric precursor (NLM(TM). Hi(TM) H i-S(TM) SA(TM) and Sylramic(TM) grades) or produced by CVD (SCS-6(TM) fiber ), including in situ analysis in CMCs or MMCs. We show how the results of v ery simple spectra fitting are correlated with Young's modulus, tensile str ength and micro-hardness. The reason why such a correlation exists, the com mon dependency of Raman signal and mechanical behavior to the micro/nanostr ucture of ceramics, is discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.