Tensile Fracture Behavior and Strength of Surface-Modified SiTiCO Fiber SiC-Matrix Minicomposites Fabricated by the PIP Process

The effect of surface-modified SiTiCO (Tyranno®) fiber on the tensile behavior of SiC-matrix minicomposites has been examined. Standard SiTiCO fiber and two kinds of surface-modified fibers were used and the composites were fabricated by a polymer infiltration pyrolysis process. The strengths of the surface-modified-fiber-reinforced minicomposites were significantly improved compared to that of the standard fiber minicomposite. The scattering of tensile strength also decreased with the use of surface-modified fibers. The results demonstrate the achievement of SiTiCO-fiber-reinforced SiC-matrix composite by modifying the surface chemistry of the fiber.