Effect of interface design on high-temperature failure of laminated composites

The fracture strength and toughness of alumina can be increased by lamination with strategically placed nickel layers and with a modified Ni/Al₂O₃ interface through tape casting. In order to examine the potential of this type of laminated composite in high temperature applications, the laminates were tested at elevated temperatures. This paper describes how a modified tortuous interface, instead of a smooth interface, increases the creep resistance of the laminates. Interface modification can control high temperature laminate behavior and is critical to successful composite design.