Damage evolution and damage tolerance in ceramic matrix composites: empirical measurements and analytical modeling

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) and continuous fibre ceramic composites (CFCCs) were developed to possess the desirable attributes of monolithic ceramics while exhibiting inherent damage tolerance through nonlinear energy absorption mechanisms.Empirical measurements and mathematical (analytical and numerical) models of this damage absorption have contributed to understanding the thermo-mechanical behaviour of CMCs.From this understanding have developed better test methods, greater predictive modeling capability of material behaviour, more appropriate processing methods, and finally design methods for utilizing CMCs.This paper presents background on CMC damage, discusses damage measurement and damage models and finally alludes to the role of damage mechanics in future developments/uses of CMCs.