Research & Technology Development of High-Fracture-Toughness & High-Strength Silicon Nitride Ceramics

Abstract

Two ceramic gas turbine projects for 300kW electric power generators and also 100kW automobile engines are on-going in Japan for their multifuel capability and high thermal efficiency. Silicon nitride is a strong candidate material for gas turbine components used at high turbine inlet temperature of 135°C because of its high temperature strength and high thermal resistance. This paper describes the review of the recent research & technology development of high-fracture-toughness and high-temperature strength silicon nitride ceramics including sialons.