Fabrication and machining of the SiCf/SiC ceramic matrix composites: a review

SiC f /SiC composites exhibit exceptional high-temperature performance, making them ideal candidates for hot-end components in aerospace, nuclear energy, and other advanced industrial applications. However, the intrinsic brittleness of SiC induces cracks, while the anisotropic nature of SiC f /SiC composite causes uneven material removal, posing significant challenges in both fabrication and subsequent machining. This review briefly summarizes the structure, properties, and fabrication of SiC f /SiC composites, highlighting the machining techniques and their respective advantages and limitations. The fabrication techniques are comparatively analyzed to explore the most effective methods. Key factors influencing machining quality and efficiency in conventional mechanical machining, non-contact machining, and laser-assisted mechanical machining are discussed, along with related optimization strategies. The review also cover various laser machining techniques, exploring factors such as parameters and auxiliary medium, and elucidates their improvement mechanisms and optimization strategies. This work aims to provide insights into rational fabricating and machining strategies for SiC f /SiC composites, ultimately promoting their broader application in various industrial fields.