Applications of advanced ceramics and ceramic matrix composites: a perspective

Advanced ceramics have the properties of high hardness, hardness retention at high temperatures, corrosion resistance and good wear resistance. Reinforcements by fibers, whiskers or particles of materials like C,SiC and TiC give them the added advantage of high toughness. These materials can be used where there is a requirement to maintain hardness at elevated temperatures and in the situations involving high abrasion. This paper provides a perspective of various applications of ceramics and ceramic matrix composites.  The role of these materials is expected to enhance substantially in future with advent of more sophisticated technologies in different spheres of engineering industry.