Creep of SiC/Ti-1100 composite in a vacuum environment

This study examines the longitudinal creep behavior of a unidirectionally reinforced SIC fiber/Ti-1100 composite at 540 degrees C in a vacuum. Primary creep behavior is predicted by the McLean creep model for elastic fibers in a creeping matrix provided the initial damage in the composite is taken into account and no damage accumulates during creep. At higher stresses, where the composite accumulates damage and eventually fails, both the strain and time to rupture can be predicted using the Bundle model, a modification of the McLean/Curtin creep model. In predicting rupture, the strength distribution of the weakest fibers in the composite is the controlling factor. On behalf of Acta Metallurgica Inc. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.