Keramikverbunde

Keramikverbunde, also known as ceramic composites or ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), are advanced materials formed by combining ceramic fibers or particles within a ceramic matrix. This combination leverages the inherent properties of ceramics, such as high strength, stiffness, hardness, and resistance to heat and corrosion, while mitigating their characteristic brittleness. The inclusion of reinforcement phases significantly improves fracture toughness and damage tolerance.

The reinforcement can take various forms, including continuous fibers, discontinuous fibers, or particulate matter. Common ceramic materials used for both the matrix and reinforcement include oxides (like alumina and zirconia), carbides (like silicon carbide), and nitrides (like silicon nitride). The manufacturing processes for CMCs are complex and often involve techniques such as infiltration, chemical vapor infiltration (CVI), melt infiltration, or sintering.

Keramikverbunde find applications in demanding environments where conventional materials fail. These include aerospace components like turbine blades and engine parts, where high-temperature strength and resistance to thermal shock are crucial. They are also used in industrial applications such as cutting tools, heat exchangers, and protective armor, as well as in biomedical implants due to their biocompatibility and wear resistance. The development of CMCs continues to focus on enhancing their performance, reducing manufacturing costs, and expanding their range of applications.