| Abstract Scope |
Silicon carbide materials are of interest in many fusion applications due to their high temperature compatibility, chemical inertness, and relatively low activation in nuclear environments. In particular, SiC/SiC composites have been proposed for use as components in breeder blanket systems. This use-case requires high-density, crystalline matrix materials, chemical compatibility with the selected molten salt, and application-compatible joining materials for practical use in a fusion reactor. This talk will discuss recent work at ORNL evaluating the corrosion resistance of SiC/SiC towards FLiBe (LiF-BeF2) molten salt, developing homogenous-material joining of SiC/SiC composites, and process optimization of chemical vapor processing such as CVI SiC for SiC/SiC composites. Finally, future developments and existing knowledge gaps will be highlighted. |