Computational methods for the analysis of, non-contact creep deformation, in ZrB2–SiC composites

A need for higher service temperatures is driving development of new, higher temperature materials that are resistant to creep. However, conventional methods of measuring creep become increasingly difficult over about 1700 °C. A non-contact method with the capability of measurements at much higher temperature has been demonstrated on niobium using centrifugal loading of a spherical sample. Recent efforts have been made to extend this method to lower temperatures and higher stresses. Using material properties from the literature, we performed finite element simulations to determine the range of experimental parameters over which non-contact measurements of creep can be readily finished within a reasonable time duration for ZrB2 and ZrB2 + 25 vol.% SiC. Results from finite element analysis (FEA) model shows that the experiments are feasible at an angular velocity of 32,000 rps and a temperature 1900 °C for ZrB2 + 25 vol.% SiC, but not for the pure ZrB2 under the range of experimental conditions available.