Charles Redmond
Headquarters, Washington, D.C.                                                   
August 9, 1993
(Phone:  202/358-1757)

Linda Ellis
Lewis Research Center, Cleveland
(Phone:  216/433-2900)


RELEASE:  93-143

UNIQUE CHEMICAL PROCESS COULD IMPROVE CERAMIC MATERIALS

   A new and unique group of ceramic processing chemicals, that 
may revolutionize the ceramic industry, has been developed by 
researchers at the NASA Lewis Research Center, Cleveland.

   The new processing chemicals, derived from the base organic 
compound guanidine, may lead to high purity ceramic products which 
can better withstand temperatures over 2192 degrees F. (1200 
degrees Celsius).

   "These chemicals have direct use in the aerospace industry.  We 
can use them to form lightweight, corrosion-resistant ceramic 
parts leading to more efficient aircraft engines and rocket 
motors," according to Dr. Warren H. Philip, inventor and Senior 
Research Chemist in the Materials Division.

   "There's also a real need for pure ceramics in such items as 
electric capacitors, superconductors, semiconductors and thermal 
barrier coatings."

   Ceramic components generally are fabricated from powders using 
a variety of techniques.  Normally, after processing, a residue 
containing sodium or potassium remains and weakens the ceramic 
material at high temperatures."

   However, with the guanidine-based processing chemicals, there 
is no sodium or potassium residue.  The ceramics produced using 
this method have reduced corrosion problems and improved 
high-temperature strength.

   "Ceramic composites consist of a ceramic matrix reinforced by 
ceramic fibers.  The fibers in the matrix usually are coated to 
inhibit cracks from occurring or spreading.  Guanidine soaps are 
used to coat the ceramic fibers."  adds Dr. Philip.
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   The guanidine compound was synthesized when scientists were 
searching for a sodium-free compound for use in producing pure 
superconductors.

   The use of guanidine in commercial ceramics is an example of 
technology utilization _ technology developed for aerospace 
applications that can be applied to non-aerospace uses.

   NASA's Technology Utilization Program was established in 1962 
to encourage greater use of space agency knowledge by providing a 
link between the NASA research community and those who might use 
the research for commercial or industrial products.

                              -end-