Mechanical property degradation of high crystalline SiC fiber–reinforced SiC matrix composite neutron irradiated to ∼100 displacements per atom

摘要: Abstract For the development of silicon carbide (SiC) materials for next-generation nuclear structural applications, degradation material properties under intense neutron irradiation is a critical feasibility issue. This study evaluated mechanical and microstructure chemical vapor infiltrated SiC matrix composite, reinforced with multi-layer SiC/pyrolytic carbon–coated Hi-NicalonTM Type S fiber, following at 319 629 °C to ∼100 displacements per atom. Both proportional limit stress ultimate flexural strength were significantly degraded as result both temperatures. After 319 °C, quasi-ductile fracture behavior nonirradiated composite became brittle, that was explained by loss functionality fiber/matrix interface associated disappearance interphase due irradiation. The specimens irradiated showed increased apparent failure strain because weakened irradiation-induced partial debonding.