Feasibility of a Composite of Sic Whiskers in an MoSi2 Matrix

A composite consisting of 20 vol% SiC whiskers in a hot-pressed MoSi/sub 2/ matrix was investigated. The composite displayed an approx. = 100% increase in flexural strength and a 54% improvement in fracture toughness, compared to the values measured for the matrix material. The improvements are attributed to the change in the microstructure of the MoSi/sub 2/ afforded by the presence of the whiskers.