Joining of machined SiC/SiC composites for thermonuclear fusion reactors

A low-activation glass-ceramic based on silica, alumina and yttria has been designed and tested as joining material for 2D fusion grade SiC/SiC. Neutron-induced radioactivity of elements present in the glass has been simulated by European Activation System EASY-2007 code package. The mechanical strength of the joined SiC/SiC has been tested by 4-point bending on three different kinds of joined samples. Bending strength higher than 120 MPa has been measured at room temperature, with composite failure in most cases.