Net Shape Reinforcement Preforms for High Temperature Ceramic and Intermetallic Matrix Composites

Foster-Miller will demonstrate an innovative approach to build net-shape single crystal oxide reinforcement preforms by extending a patented process. A recent study sponsored by Air Force Wright Laboratories concluded that only single crystal oxide reinforcements offer adequate reinforcing potential for ceramic matrices for high temperature (1800 to 3500 degree F) applications. However, only a few single crystal oxide reinforcements are available commercially and suffer from drawbacks associated with large diameter (125 um) (inability to form complex shapes by weaving and braiding and limit on thinness and curvature of the part) and handling damage. Foster-Miller's process can make complex shaped preforms with three dimensionally tailored single crystal oxide reinforcement. The reinforcement diameter will be less thant 25 um and handling is eliminated. The process is versatile and can make preforms of various single crystal oxides such as sapphire, YAG, Yb2, yttria stabilized zirconia, MgAl104, doped alumina, eutectic YAG. Apart from ceramic matrices, the net shape reinforcement can be used for intermetallic and metallic matrices also.