Method of altering a surface of a ceramic matrix composite to aid in nodule removal
US11760699B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 9, 2020 |
| Grant date | Sep 19, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC04B2235/728
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method of altering a surface of a ceramic matrix composite to aid in nodule removal is described. A fiber preform comprising a framework of ceramic fibers is heated to a temperature at or above a melting temperature of silicon. During the heating, the fiber preform is infiltrated with a molten material comprising silicon. After the infiltration, the fiber preform is cooled, and the infiltrated fiber preform is exposed to a gas comprising nitrogen during cooling. Silicon nitride may be formed by a reaction of free (unreacted) silicon at or near the surface of the infiltrated fiber preform with the nitrogen. Thus, a ceramic matrix composite having a surface configured for easy nodule removal is formed. Any silicon nodules formed on the surface during cooling may be removed without machining or heat treatment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.