The Investigation Of Microstructure In Structural Ceramics

The importance of understanding and controlling the effects of microstructure on the properties of ceramics for space and nuclear applications has become well established in recent years, and several introductory reviews are available. It is now appropriate to focus attention on defining pacing problems and the most fertile areas for future effort. This is attempted for the mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties underlying the structural use of ceramics. A dimensional range from subgrain features of polycrystalline bodies to the micromechanics of composites is considered. The status of experimental methods for characterizing microstructure is discussed, as is the importance of improved experimental substances. One pacing factor is the ability to synthesize or prepare desired microstructures with controlled variations, in order to further research into microstructural effects as well as to provide a basis for subsequent technology. (Author).