Recent topics and toughening of ceramics matrix composites.

Toughening vinyl ester matrix composites by tailoring

Ceramics, composites and intergrowths

The first two articles in this section focus on ferroelectrics. Hoffman and Kungl address connections between composition, processing, microstructure and large strain behavior of lead-based ferroelectrics. Special emphasis is directed towards the effects of additives in PZT ceramics on defect structure and microstructural development. Recent work and future prospects on high temperature ferroel...

Direct observation of toughening mechanisms in carbon nanotube ceramic matrix composites

The excellent mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTS) are driving research into the creation of new strong, tough nanocomposite systems. Here, the first evidence of toughening mechanisms operating in carbon-nanotube-reinforced ceramic composites is presented. A highly ordered array of parallel multiwall CNTs in an alumina matrix was fabricated. Nanoindentation introduced controlled cra...

NDE of Ceramics and Ceramic Composites

Toughening Mechanisms in Nanolayered MAX Phase Ceramics—A Review

Advanced engineering and functional ceramics are sensitive to damage cracks, which delay the wide applications of these materials in various fields. Ceramic composites with enhanced fracture toughness may trigger a paradigm for design and application of the brittle components. This paper reviews the toughening mechanisms for the nanolayered MAX phase ceramics. The main toughening mechanisms for...