Ceramics take the heat

Nov. 20, 2003
Sandia researchers are developing ultrahigh temperature ceramics (UHTCs) that withstand up to 2,000°C for use on hypersonic vehicles such as the space shuttle. The ceramics go in thermal-insulation on hypersonic vehicles. They also must resist evaporation, erosion, and oxidation, as well as exhibit low thermal diffusivity to limit heat transferring to support structures.
Sandia researchers check out material that withstands twice as much heat as conventional Shuttle tile.

Sandia researchers are developing ultrahigh temperature ceramics (UHTCs) that withstand up to 2,000°C for use on hypersonic vehicles such as the space shuttle. The ceramics go in thermal-insulation on hypersonic vehicles. They also must resist evaporation, erosion, and oxidation, as well as exhibit low thermal diffusivity to limit heat transferring to support structures.

The ceramics are made of zirconium diboride, hafnium diboride, and silicon carbide and take the form of protective, oxidation-resistant coatings. "However, in their present state of development, UHTCs are weak and don't handle thermal shock well, deficiencies that keep them from being fully dense ceramics with good microstructures," says Ron Loehman, a senior scientist in Sandia's Ceramic Materials group. The poor properties come from agglomerates, inhomogeneities, and grain boundary impurities, all of which are errors in ceramic processing. Recently, researchers developed UHTCs that are 100% dense or nearly so. Also, researchers have hot pressed UHTCs with a wider range of SiC contents than used before. A range of compositions and microstructures give system engineers more flexibility with their designs.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!