Growth of indentation induced flaws in RBSiC and RBSiC-TiB{sub 2} composites under an applied stress
- Univ. of Wolverhampton (United Kingdom)
The influence of microstructure on the mechanical properties of a fine grain size reaction-bonded silicon carbide (RBSiC) and RBSiC-TiB{sub 2} composites has been evaluated. Incorporation of TiB{sub 2} particles in a 1200 No. RBSiC, (4 {mu}m average grain size), resulted in a reduction in the flexural strength but an increase in the indentation fracture toughness. This increase in toughness was the result of a smaller induced indentation flaw, because of crack arrest and deflection mechanisms by TiB{sub 2} particles. This gave the composite grades an enhanced damage or flaw tolerance in comparison with fine grain size, (4 {mu}m and less), grades of RBSiC. Indentation crack measurements taken on the fracture face of indentation strength bars also showed that crack growth to failure occurs via an expanding cavity mode that is dependent on indentation load.
- OSTI ID:
- 535637
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-950739--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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