This Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I project will explore tough high-temperature ceramic materials that are superior to metal alloys. A low-cost, continuously processed beta-silicon carbide (SiC) fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composite (CMC) will be developed. The ceramic matrix, derived from polycarbosilane converted into polyethny-carbosilane, results when the precursor is cross-linked by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, pyrolyzed in inert atmosphere and sintered. A high purity, dense, sub-micron crystalline SiC CMC is expected with Si-C stoichiometry that is reproducible, has low manufacturing capital costs, and excellent life-cycle and physical properties at elevated temperatures (about 1400 degrees Centigrade). Since the polymer precursor is very fluid, conventional plastics technology can be used to produce large components. Commercial applications are wide and encompass oxidation and water-resistant hardware components for automotive and jet engines, exhaust deflectors, radiant burners, hot gas filters, heat exchangers, and turbine combustion liners.
