Hybrid monolithic ceramic and ceramic matrix composite airfoil and method for making the same

Abstract

The present invention is a low density hybrid airfoil comprising a temperature resistant exterior layer and a tough, high impact resistant interior layer. Specifically, the airfoil comprises a monolithic ceramic exterior layer and a fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composite interior layer. Both the monolithic ceramic and fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composite are low density materials. Additionally, the monolithic ceramic is a high temperature resistant material, and the fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composite is a relatively high impact resistant structure. Encapsulating the airfoil with a temperature resistant exterior layer protects the airfoil in a high temperature environment, and supporting the airfoil with a high impact resistant, fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composite improves the overall impact resistance of the airfoil thereby resulting in a tough, high temperature resistant, low density airfoil.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.