Progress in SiC-based ceramic composites for fusion applications

Silicon carbide (SiC) fiber-reinforced SiC-matrix ceramic composite (SiC/SiC composite) is an attractive material for blanket /first wall structures in fusion power devices. Recent extensive materials R&D efforts are producing advanced SiC/SiC composites substantially different from conventional materials in terms of baseline properties as well as irradiation stability. This paper provides a summary of the recent fusion-relevant progress in development and irradiation effect studies of SiC/SiC composites achieved through Japanese programs and Japan/US collaborative JUPITER(-II) program for fusion materials and blanket engineering.