High strain to failure matrices produced by multiple crack stopping interfaces: comparison of polymeric and CVD matrices

Fibre reinforced ceramic matrix composites are a promising class of structural materials. While tensile failure strains for composites often approach one percent, matrix microcracking frequently occurs at just a small fraction of the failure strain. Multiple crack-deflecting interfaces and whisker reinforcement were introduced within the matrix to increase the strain at which matrix microcracking occurred. Two processes, polymeric precursor and CVD infiltration, were evaluated for producing the multilayered matrices. Improvements in matrix strains of over 200%, and also composite strengths were observed.