PNNL

Abstract

The database on thermal shock behavior of SiC/SiC composites is very limited. The existing data suggests continuous fiber ceramic matrix composites, such as SiC/SiC, exhibit very good thermal shock characteristics but most data was obtained for -Delta T conditions as a result of quenching from an elevated temperature. Thermal shock in a fusion energy system will result from plasma discharge and will result in a +Delta T. One study was reported for SiC/SiC composites given a +Delta T with no loss in strength following 25 cycles at a heating rate of 1700 degrees C/s. Monolithic SiC failed in 1.5 cycles at a heating rate of 1400 degrees C/s. Thermal fatigue test results also suggest that SiC/SiC composites will exhibit little or no degradation for 100's of cycles. It was estimated that radiation could, in an extreme case, cause a reduction in the thermal shock performance from a calculated Delta Tc of 957K to about 300K if the fiber strength is reduced by 50%. Newer composites with greater radiation resistance should have a much smaller change in the Delta Tc.