Monitoring the Effects of Inclusions in Model Glass Systems Using Acousto-Ultrasonic Techniques

Abstract

The feasibility of employing acousto-ultrasonic techniques for monitoring the effects of inclusions in ceramics has been studied using model glass matrix composites. Two brittle inclusions, namely alumina and silicon carbide, with different thermal expansion coefficient mismatches with the matrix, and a ductile inclusion, lead, which has a much lower Young's modulus than the brittle inclusions, were used. It was found that the cumulative ringdown count and the frequency spectra were sensitive to the inclusions and any associated cracking and porosity. The results are discussed in terms of scattering of the ultrasonic stress waves by the inclusions and associated defects