Ceramic Fibre Types and Compositions
topic
Major types: Alumina fibres (α-Al₂O₃, continuous use to 1300°C, 3M Nextel 610/720), alumina-silica (85% Al₂O₃-15% SiO₂, to 1200°C, less expensive), silicon carbide (SiC, Hi-Nicalon, Tyranno, Sylramic—to 1400°C, excellent oxidation resistance, creep resistance), aluminoborosilicate (refractory ceramic fibres for insulation, 1000-1260°C), and zirconia fibres (stabilized ZrO₂, to 1600°C, research stage). Properties vary widely: strength 1.5-3.5 GPa, modulus 150-400 GPa, density 2.5-3.3 g/cm³.
Role
Composition determines maximum use temperature, oxidation resistance, creep behavior, and cost—alumina for moderate temperatures (<1300°C), SiC for demanding aerospace applications (1200-1400°C with stress), and aluminosilicates for cost-sensitive industrial insulation.