Environmentally Protective Coatings for Ceramic Matrix Composites Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-020 Topic Title: Environmentally Protective Coatings for Ceramic Matrix Composites Proposal No.: N091-020-1475 Firm: Synterials, Inc 318 Victory Drive Herndon, Virginia 20170 Contact: Alan Grieve Phone: (703) 471-9310 Abstract: In order to make ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) into a useful class of materials for fabricating aerospace structures, there are several key issues that need to be resolved. One of these issues concerns the performance of CMC at intermediate-high temperatures. Oxidation of the interface coating used to control the crack deflection properties and other serious issues related to the ingress of moisture can significantly impact the long-term reliability of CMCs. The goal of this program is to develop a low cost, easily applied two-part coating system to both reduce the open porosity and provide an effective oxidation barrier. A simple external sealant is unlikely to provide the long-term protection required for CMCs in operational use. There are a number of issues to be overcome in order for any coating system to be effective. This proposal identifies some of those issues and details an approach for overcoming them. Benefits: Affordable, lightweight high-strength ceramic matrix composite materials could find use in a whole myriad of high-temperature applications, both military and commercial. The aerospace sector in particular would be well served in a number of applications by CMCs. Currently something of a niche market due to high cost, it is one whose growth is currently hindered by issues related to their manufacturability and reliability. The demand for these advanced materials will continue to grow as the cost is reduced and performance improves. Return