Corrosion/Erosion Behavior of Silicon Nitride and Silicon Carbide Ceramics - Gas Turbine Experience

摘要

Ceramic materials, silicon nitride and silicon carbide in particular, are under intensive engineering development for gas turbine applications. One of the factors which has encouraged this line of development is the excellent corrosion/erosion behavior of these ceramics. This paper will briefly review some of the fundamental mechanisms and critical materials properties thought to govern the corrosion/erosion behavior of ceramics and point out where these differ from those of metals. A review of available erosion, corrosion, and combined corrosion/erosion testing of silicon nitrides and silicon carbides will be presented. While the results of these tests are quite encouraging it is evident that there is a lack of data at high temperatures, in atmospheres containing multiple contaminates, and there is virtually no long-duration testing information. The author will suggest areas of research required to further our understanding of corrosion/erosion behavior and phenomena, and provide a more extensive data base for future engineering applications. (Author)