for propulsion and thermal protection systems

 From both economic and ecological viewpoints efficient and environment-friendly propulsion systems are extremely important for future civil and military aviation. An outstanding goal of research and development of DLR is the realization of gas turbine engines displaying improved thermal efficiency combined with lower pollution. This can be achieved by covering the turbine burning chamber wall with protective shingles made of high-temperature resistant materials. Ceramics generally exhibit a high resistance to heat, corrosion and wear. However, their intrinsic brittleness limits their usability. Mainly in security-sensitive applications is damage tolerance, i.e. a non-catastrophic failure mandatory. These requirements are met by fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites. The specific microstructure of these materials provides damage-tolerant fracture behaviour. High-temperature ceramic matrix composites are a focused field of research and development of the Institute of Materials Research of DLR, Cologne.