Chemical composition above is wt%. Crystal phases are alpha alumina + yttria stabilized zirconia. Filament diameter is 10-12 µm. 3M Nextel Ceramic Fibers 610, 650, and 720 are composite grade fibers. They have a refined crystal structure based on alpha-Al2O3 and do not contain glassy phases. This allows the fibers to retain their strength at high temperatures. 3M Nextel Fiber 650, an alpha-Al2O3 with Y2O3 and ZrO2 additions, has improved strength retention at temperature due to reduced grain boundary sliding. The Y2O3 and ZrO2 additions also help to 'pin' the grains and reduce grain growth when exposed to thermal aging. Information provided by 3M Ceramic Textile and Composites. |