Effect of Sintering Temperature on Mechanical Behaviors of an Oxide Fiber-Reinforced Oxide Matrix Composite

Sintering temperature can significantly affect the mechanical behaviors of ceramic matrix composites. Herein, the effect of sintering temperature (900-1200 degrees C) on micro- and macromechanical properties of an oxide fiber-reinforced oxide matrix (oxide/oxide) composite is investigated. The crack propagation path is predicted by the He-Hutchinson model. Results show that the elastic modulus of matrix and interfacial shear strength increase with sintering temperature. The propagating crack converts from deflection along the interface to direct penetration into the matrix at 1200 degrees C. With increase of the sintering temperature, the flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength monotonically increase, while the fracture toughness increases and then decreases at 1200 degrees C. A good balance between the fracture strength and fracture toughness is achieved on the 1100 degrees C sintered composite, which possesses a high flexural strength of approximate to 276.7 MPa, a high interlaminar shear strength of approximate to 17.2 MPa, and a high fracture toughness of approximate to 13.9 MPa m(1/2). The study offers a new sight in deep understand of the preparation and applicability of oxide/oxide composite at high temperatures.