The interface, microstructure and mechanical properties of Cf/LAS glass-ceramic composites

Carbon fibre (Cf)-reinforced lithium aluminium silicate (LAS) glass-ceramic matrix composites were prepared by using LAS ultrafine powders and LAS sol as starting materials and binder, respectively. The effects of fibre content, hot-pressing temperature and pressure on the mechanical properties of the composites were studied. By means of SEM and theoretical calculation, the effects of thermal mismatching between fibre and matrix, and the microstructure on the mechanical properties of the composites were analysed and discussed. The flexural strength and fracture toughness of Cf/LAS glass-ceramic matrix composite prepared were 740 MPa and 19.5 MPa m1/2, respectively. The wettability of carbon fibre with matrix was also investigated.