Ceramics for Gas Turbines, Present and Future

Silicon nitride and silicon carbide, the two material systems of most interest for gas turbine applications are both consolidated by two different procedures-hot pressing and sintering. Hot pressing results in a fully dense structure with comparatively higher strength and cost, and limited shape capability. Sintering on the other hand results in a less dense structure with lower strengths and costs, but extensive shape capability.

Typical properties are reviewed highlighting differences between these ceramic systems and the metals commonly employed.

Recent advances in the state-of-the-art are presented pointing out areas of likely future developments and contrasting these to areas where improvements are most desired.