Application and implications of GE prepreg-melt infiltration process in SiCf/SiC composites research

The United States General Electric Company (referred to as GE) has conducted research on SiCf/SiC composite materials since the 1980s. The successful application and commercialization of GE’s SiCf/SiC composites in engine systems were achieved after 30 years of continuous investment (nearly 1.5 billion USD) and the collaborative efforts of hundreds of scientists and engineers. This paper details the spiral development history of GE’s prepreg-melt infiltration (MI) SiCf/SiC composites，focusing on their innovative applications in hot-section components for gas turbines and aero-engines. Through case studies of several critical hot-section components，GE’s research paradigm of “demand traction，technology verification，and engineering iteration”is elucidated. Furthermore，the 10-year progressive design iteration path of the 7FA engine turbine shroud is systematically analyzed，revealing the synergistic optimization logic between service failure feedback and forward design validation. In light of international advancements，this paper interprets GE’s establishment of a“material-process-test”technological barrier through vertical supply chain integration，digital twin-driven process optimization，and machine-learning-based inspection systems. GE’s experience demonstrates that technological breakthroughs require a balance between long-term fundamental research and agile engineering iteration. For domestic development，a closed-loop“design-manufacturing-assessment”research and development process should be established，guided by critical components，alongside multidisciplinary collaboration mechanisms. Additionally，China should strengthen foundational capabilities by leveraging universities and national research and development centers for mechanistic studies，implement multi-dimensional optimization under thermo-mechanical-chemical coupling constraints，accelerate industrial ecosystem construction，integrate fragmented resources，and build rapid“industry-academia-research”verification platforms. A digital transformation strategy encompassing full-chain data acquisition and AI integration is also essential. Finally，by synthesizing successful international practices and adapting them to China’s context，an autonomous development roadmap covering“basic research, pilot verification，standard formulation，and industrial synergy”is proposed，providing methodological guidance for advancing ceramic matrix composite technologies in high-thrust-to-weight-ratio aero-engine applications.