Effect of impact damage on flexural strength of the C/CSiC composites

The effects of impact damage on flexural strength of oxidised and unoxidised C/CSiC composites were investigated. Composite specimens were oxidised for 10 min at 1600°C. Each sample was impacted for pre-impact damage at a constant impact velocity of 20 m s−1 and with an impact energy of 90 J in a Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar test instrument. The results indicate that the flexural strength of virgin C/CSiC composite is affected by the pre-crack damage and oxidising process. During this process, the C/CSiC composite loses 20% of its strength owing to an increased incidence of microcracks.