Creep Anisotropy of a Continuous‐Fiber‐Reinforced Silicon Carbide/Calcium Aluminosilicate Composite

Abstract

Creep studies conducted on a unidirectional silicon carbide calcium aluminosilicate composite indicate that the Nicalon fibers provide longitudinal creep strengthening at 1200°C. The deformation is transient in nature because grain growth in the fibers enhances their creep resistance. The‘ transverse creep strength is considerably smaller, being dominated by the matrix, resulting in appreciable creep anisotropy. This anisotropy leads to severe distortion when off‐axis loadings are imposed. Residual stresses develop upon unloading alter creep, and cause superficial matrix cracking.