Silicon Carbide Shapes By Selected Area Laser Deposition Vapor Infiltration

Selected Area Laser Deposition Vapor Infiltration (SALDVI) is a unique combination ofselected area laser deposition, chemical vapor infiltration and layered powder handling techniques that can be used to fabricate silicon carbide (SiC)/SiC composite shapes. This paper discusses a SALDVI process under investigation which selectively infiltrates SiC powder with SiC generated by decomposition of a gas precursor under a scanned laser beam. A general description of the process, including some of its inherent advantages is presented. Experimental results which explore beam interaction, powder size and infiltration time effects are also presented.