PNNL

Abstract

A new silver-based joining technique referred to as reactive air brazing (RAB) has been recently developed for joining high temperature structural ceramic components of the type used in gas turbines, combustion engines, heat exchangers, and burners. It was found that additions of CuO to silver exhibit a tremendous effect on both the wettability and joint strength characteristics of the subsequent braze relative to polycrystalline alumina substrates. The effect is particularly significant at low CuO content, with substantial improvements in wetting observed in the 1 – 8 mol% range. The corresponding strength of the brazed polycrystalline alumina joints appears to be maximized at a copper oxide content of 8 mol%, with a maximum room temperature flexural strength approaching that of monolithic alumina. While further increases in oxide content lead to improved wetting on polycrystalline alumina, the effect on joint strength is deleterious. It appears that the formation of a continuous brittle copper-based oxide layer along the interface between the braze and alumina faying surface is responsible for the poor mechanical behavior observed in joints fabricated with higher CuO content brazes.