He has published over 160 papers in peer-reviewed journals and has been the PI of over 20 nationally and internationally funded research grants. His research interests include the study of biomorphic silicon carbide, single crystal and polycrystalline zirconia and alumina, alumina-based composites, silicon nitride, electronic ceramics, ceramic joining, and single crystals fibers.Mrityunjay Singh is Chief Scientist, Ohio Aerospace Institute, NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio. He has edited/co-edited thirty eight books and five journal volumes, authored/co-authored ten book chapters/invited reviews and more than two hundred fifty papers in journals and edited volumes. He is involved with various activities in processing, manufacturing, joining and attachment technologies, and characterization of advanced ceramics and composites, lightweight cellular ceramics, environment conscious ceramics, and porous ceramic foams, high conductivity composites and graphite foams for thermal management systems, ceramic matrix composites for turbomachinery and propulsion systems, and a wide variety of materials for ultra high temperature and extreme environment applications.* Corresponding author -Email: jrr@us.es, Tel: +34 954 550 936
Biomorphic Ceramics from Wood Derived PrecursorsMaterials development is driven by microstructural complexity, in many cases inspired by biological systems like bones, shells, and wood. In one approach, one selects the main microstructural features responsible for improved properties a designs processes to obtain materials with such microstructures (continuous-fiber-reinforced ceramics, porous ceramics, fibrous ceramic monoliths, etc.). In a different approach, it is possible to use natural materials directly as microstructural templates. Biomorphic ceramics are produced from natural and renewable resources (wood or wood-derived products). A wide variety of SiC based ceramics can be fabricated by infiltration of silicon or silicon alloys into cellulose-derived carbonaceous templates, providing a low-cost route to advanced ceramic materials with near-net shape potential and amenable to rapid prototyping. These materials have tailorable microstructure and properties, and behave like ceramic materials manufactured by advanced ceramic processing approaches. This review aims to be a comprehensive description of the development of bioSiC ceramics:from wood templates and their microstructure to potential applications of bioSiC materials.