Ceramic-Matrix Composites (CMCs) - Consultancy
Developments in nuclear and aerospace & defence sectors are leading to demand for materials that can operate at higher temperatures than ever before, and one potentially promising solution is ceramic matrix composites (CMCs).
CMCs are composite materials, consisting of a network of fibres embedded within a matrix material, that have been developed to maximise performance attributes such as toughness when compared with traditional monolithic ceramics.
CMCs address the issue of brittleness experienced by monolithic ceramics, which are often a barrier in the use of these materials in structural environments. The introduction of fibres within the ceramic matrix increases the toughness of the overall system, causing a combination of high operating temperature and mechanical loading – characteristics which are extremely beneficial when developing materials for use in harsh environments.
Our Capabilities
Lucideon has the capability to work with Ox/Ox, SiC/SiC, and UHTCMCs through matrix formulation development, forming, densification - for example Polymer Impregnation Pyrolysis (PIP), sintering and testing.
Through our advanced ceramic pilot-scale facility, Lucideon provides a consultancy and trials offering to clients in need of materials development and process optimisation. We work initially at pilot-line scale, with a view to upscaling these processes to full manufacturing capability.
Lucideon is also developing a novel CMC utilising our proprietary MIDAR® technology platform. Geoceramic MIDAR® composites (GMCs) bridge the temperature performance gap between metals and high-end Ox/Ox CMCs. For more information, please click here
CMC facilities at Lucideon
- Matrix material preparation facilities & expertise
- Autoclave
- Prototype scale Ox/Ox CMC sintering furnace
- Furnaces with Polymer Impregnation Pyrolysis (PIP) capabilities
CMC ASTM test methods performed at Lucideon:
- ASTM C1468-19a - Transthickness Tensile Strength of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Advanced Ceramics at Ambient Temperature
- ASTM C1773-21 - Monotonic Axial Tensile Behavior of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Advanced Ceramic Tubular Test Specimens at Ambient Temperature
- ASTM C1899-21 - Flexural Strength of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Advanced Ceramic Tubular Test Specimens at Ambient Temperature
- ASTM C1341-13 - Flexural Properties of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Advanced Ceramic Composites
- ASTM C1337-17 - Creep and Creep Rupture of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Advanced Ceramics Under Tensile Loading at Elevated Temperatures
Example applications
- Reusable thermal protection systems
- Leading edges for hypersonic vehicles
- Exhaust mixers in jet engines
- Nuclear fusion reactors
- Battery encapsulation for aerospace
Collaboration with the National Composites Centre (NCC)
Lucideon and the NCC have recently signed an MOU to progress the development of oxide and non-oxide CMCs for a variety of applications. Each party's expertise complements the other, with Lucideon and the NCC providing the advanced ceramic and composite knowledge respectively.
This collaboration will provide end-to-end capability to address the current challenges with CMCs, from fundamental materials development through to full system design and validation.
As part of this relationship, we have produced a joint capabilities brochure, titled 'Ceramic Matrix Composites Opportunities'.
» The brochure can be found here
Resources
Geopolymer Matrix Composites for use at High Temperature - Fabrication, Properties and Applications
Ceramic Matrix Composites Opportunities – Joint Capabilities with the National Composites Centre, July 2024