Abstract
Ceramic matrix composites are key materials for advanced energy systems. Silicon carbide (SiC) continuous fibre-reinforced SiC matrix composites have promise for fission energy and fusion energy due to their high-temperature strength, chemical inertness, irradiation tolerance and the favourable nuclear properties of SiC, and the damage tolerance and predictable strength of the composite structure. SiC-based composites can be used to enhance the accident tolerance of light water reactors. These applications require materials with high reliability in harsh conditions, imposing challenges for materials. This chapter reviews the effect of irradiation on SiC and carbon-fibre composites, gives an overview of the potential applications of these materials in fusion energy systems and nuclear reactors, and concludes with future prospects and opportunities for research.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Advances in Ceramic Matrix Composites |
| Publisher | Elsevier Ltd |
| Pages | 496-523 |
| Number of pages | 28 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780857091208 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Feb 2014 |
Keywords
- C/C composite
- Ceramic matrix composites
- Fission energy
- Fusion energy
- Nuclear energy
- Radiation effects
- SiC/SiC composite
- Small specimen test technology