Monolithic SiC parts are widely used in crucibles, furnace linings, and combustors in high temperature chemical processing. SiC/SiC composites have demonstrated long life in industrial gas turbines. SiC matrix composites are also extremely promising for use in nuclear energy reactor cores due to their radiation stability, thermal stability and excellent thermal fatigue resistance. They have also been studied for use in nuclear fusion plants as plasma-facing components, structural members, and even heat exchangers.
C/SiC and SiC/SiC matrix composites have been proposed for a wide variety of aerospace applications. Its outstanding high temperature materials properties and chemical resistance has lead to its consideration for use in leading edges and other thermal protection systems, combustion chambers and nozzles, nozzle flaps, and afterburner flame holders. Their high dimensional stability across cryogenic, ambient and elevated temperatures has lead to their consideration as mounts for spaceborne optical platforms.
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