Multi-Field Coupled Cyclic Degradation Mechanisms of Alumina Ceramic Fiber Ropes

Continuous alumina (Al2O3) fibers are critical reinforcement materials for ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) utilized in extreme high-temperature environments. While their baseline thermal and mechanical properties are well-documented, their long-term service reliability in complex, multi-field environments—specifically coupled thermal, hygral, and atmospheric conditions—remains insufficiently quantified. This study systematically investigates the degradation mechanisms of alumina ceramic fiber ropes subjected to simulated engine exhaust atmospheres and cyclic rain exposure. By integrating macroscopic tensile testing with rigorous multi-scale microstructural characterizations (SEM, XRD, TGA, and advanced surface chemical state analyses via EDS and XPS), a comprehensive degradation model is proposed. Our findings reveal a pronounced two-stage mechanical degradation behavior: an initial catastrophic strength collapse followed by a stabilization phase. We elucidate that the initial embrittlement is governed not merely by thermal damage, but fundamentally by the hydrothermal volatilization and depletion of the surface amorphous SiO2 binder, which annihilates the inter-fiber cooperative load-sharing capability. Concurrently, quantitative XPS and XRD analyses strongly suggest that the internal amorphous grain-boundary films undergo rapid structural rearrangement and crystallization, effectively homogenizing the microstructure and shifting the fracture mechanics from energy-dissipative crack deflection to unhindered brittle cleavage. After the preferential depletion of the amorphous silicate phase, the exposed α-Al2O3 core dictates a stabilized mechanical response. This research provides critical theoretical frameworks and experimental evidence for the life-cycle assessment and microstructural optimization of advanced oxide ceramic fibers in next-generation aerospace applications.