Waterjet-guided laser processing of SiC/SiC ceramic matrix composites to obtain high cleanliness and low oxidation damage characteristics surfaces

SiC/SiC composites (SiC fibers and SiC matrix) are used extensively in aerospace, energy, transportation, and other fields due to their excellent combination of high temperature, corrosion, and wear resistance. Surface cleanliness and oxidation damage directly affect their properties such as, friction, wear, fatigue, and corrosion. Therefore, achieving a high clean and low oxidation damage surface is critical to improving the service performance of SiC/SiC composites. Through comparison with femtosecond lasers and the comprehensive application of surface analysis methods, it is found that waterjet-guided laser (WJGL) can ensure that the surface is kept in a clean state, effectively inhibiting or even eliminating oxidative damage. Meanwhile, it also does not modify the physical phase composition of the base material. The research results provide an experimental and technical basis for the precision low-damage machining of SiC/SiC composites and provide valuable references for the green manufacturing of difficult-to-machine, heat- and stress-sensitive materials.