Long Fiber Reinforced Sol-Gel Derived Al2O3 Composites

Abstract

ABSTRACTA simple casting technique was used to fabricate composites comprised of long fibers in an alumina matrix. Random fiber preforms were placed in trays and subsequently a liquid alumina sol was added and gelled. Dried sheets approximately 6 cm in diameter and 0.2 cm thick were prepared without cracking. The addition of glycerol to the sol improved drying properties, made the dry gel flexible, and permitted the lamination (plying) of several sheets.