Characterization of In‐Situ BN Interface Formed by Nitridation of Nextel 312

cost approach to the formation of BN on the fiber surface. Although the BN enriched surface region is extremely thin (< 40 nm), it is effective in providing debonding and composite behavior. Variation in mechanical behavior of NextelTM 3 12/BN/131ackglasTM composites has been noted among panels fabricated with AF10 cloth treated in different nitridation runs. Understanding this variation became the rationale for undertaking a detailed characterization of the nitrided fiber using field emission scanning electron microscopy, low voltage energy dispersive x-ray and Auger electron spectroscopy. Chemical composition and surface morphology are discussed in relation to observed mechanical behavior of NextelTM 3 1 2/BlackglasTM composites tested in bending. Treatment of NextelTM 3 12 in a reactive environment has been used as a low