Continuous-fiber-reinforced SiC-based ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) soon will be implemented as high-temperature components for advanced commercial jet engines. General Electric Aviation (Cincinnati, Ohio) and Safran (Paris, France) announced plans to use CMC hot-section parts in the upcoming LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engine slated for 2016.¹ The new engine will fly on Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft.

This is a historic step for ceramic composites after 30 years of intense research.² CMCs and, in particular, SiC-based CMCs, which consist of SiC fibers in a predominantly SiC matrix, offer much higher stress–temperature durability than nickel-based superalloys now used in jet engines. In addition, CMCs are much-lower-density materials, which affords the potential for more efficient engines, because they can tolerate higher turbine inlet temperatures and reduced cooling needs. Also, lighter-weight engines improve the thrust-to-weight capability of the turbine engine.