SiC Fiber Reinforced Si₃N₄ Ceramics with Self-Diagnosis Function

We have fabricated silicon carbide fiber, "Hi-Nicalon", reinforced silicon nitride ceramics with the self-diagnosis function using the change of the electrical resistance via the filament winding and hot pressing. One of the self-diagnosis function, the fracture detection, was investigated at room and the elevated temperature. Measurement of the changes in the electrical resistance during applying a four-point bending load with apparatus having a span of 30 mm at a cross head speed of 0.5 mm/min were conducted. In this study, we discussed the mechanisms for the electrical resistance change due to a bending applied load at RT and elevated temperature.