Joining and Integration of Fibre-Reinforced CMCs and Ceramic Materials to Metals for High Temperature Applications using Brazing and Diffusion Bonding

In this section

Back to Core Research Programme AMorph – 4D Printing for Field Morphing Structures Automation of Composite and Hybrid Joining Process Coaxial Wire Additive Manufacturing Processes and In-Line Monitoring Tools Development of Coded Excitation Technique for Non-Metallic Pipes Inspection Development of Digital Twin technology as a demonstrator for real-time integrity assessment of crack growth in tensile specimens Development of Friction Stir Welding (FSW) for Hydrogen Fuel Storage Tanks Development of Leak-Before-Break Hydrogen Storage Composite Pressure Vessels With Polymeric Liner Establishing Assessment Methods for Determining Safe Service Limits of High-Temperature Materials in Extreme Environments Fracture toughness in aggressive environments: effect of crack monitoring techniques on test results In-process detection and non-destructive testing of electron beam weld imperfections Internal Bore Coatings for Applications in Corrosion and Hydrogen Environment Joining of Additively Manufactured Materials Long term behaviour of polymeric liner materials/coatings in hydrogen service Techniques for High Temperature Ultrasonic Inspection of Arc Welding Ultimate Leverage Fund

Project Code: 36203

Start date and planned duration: January 2025, 12 months

Objective

Evaluate thermal and mechanical compatibility of CMCs and metals to identify suitable combinations for high temperature applications.
Develop suitable brazing and diffusion bonding parameters to ensure stable joints between dissimilar materials.
Characterise joint integrity and performance through microstructural and mechanical testing.

Project Outline

Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC’s) are emerging as an alternative to monolithic ceramics, offering comparable high temperature performance and significantly enhanced mechanical properties due to their fiber reinforced matrix structure. These attributes make CMCs highly suitable for demanding high performance applications.

Currently there are manufacturing techniques to fabricate Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs); however, one of the key challenges facing the industry is the development of reliable methods to join these materials. The joining process is particularly critical for ensuring structural integrity under extreme operating conditions. Therefore, we are proposing to develop a market offering focussed on joining solutions for high temperature operation of CMCs.

Industry Sectors

- Aerospace

- Space

- Defense

- Nuclear

Benefits to Industry

Facilitates the development of components that can withstand extreme environments, crucial for aerospace, space, defense and nuclear sectors.
Supports the integration of lightweight, heat resistant CMCs into metallic systems, enabling higher operating temperatures and improved thermodynamic efficiency.
Bridges a critical materials integration gap, helping industries fast tract the deployment of next generation propulsion systems, thermal protection systems and structural components.
Opens new pathways for hybrid material design and multifunctional component development driving innovation in advanced materials.