Design of ceramic laminates for structural applications

It has been shown previously that laminated ceramic structures of layers (or fibres) separated by crack deflecting structures give a simple, easy, and general method of enhancing the properties of ceramics, as determined in both the laboratory and under service conditions, particularly in environments of extreme thermal loaning. In this paper the microstructural features which control the behaviour are quantitatively described. Issues associated with the manufacture of such structures and the most appropriate types of applications are also discussed, as well as the implications for desirable microstructures and the means of obtaining them.