Glass and glass-ceramic matrix composite materials

This review covers international research on the fabrication, microstructure, properties and applications of glass and glass-ceramic matrix composites reinforced with continuous fibres. The most important research work reported in the scientific literature since the discovery of these composites in the late 60 s is reviewed. It will be shown that several fabrication procedures have reached an advanced development stage and that nowadays reliable, high-quality glass matrix composite materials are available. However, the literature analysis demonstrates that several challenges remain for future developments in this area. These include the need for a further understanding of the thermomechanical behaviour of the composites and the assessment of environmental and chemical interactions under in-service realistic conditions, i.e., mostly at high temperatures and in oxidative or corrosive atmospheres. It is also emphasised that relatively limited R&D work has been carried out so far in the area of manufacturing of engineering components and structures having complex geometry and large dimensions. Specifically there is a lack of development of adequate machining and joining techniques. The ultimate goal of this review is to generate a broader interest in glass and glass-ceramic matrix composites in both the scientific and industrial communities, so that the high technological potential of these materials can be exploited more widely.