| abstract |
A process for strengthening polycrystalline refractory oxide fibers, particularly alumina fibers, which comprises subjecting them to a silicone-containing liquid to obtain a coating on the fiber. On subsequent heating of the coated fiber, the silicone is decomposed to silica, and the silica is vitrified into an adherent, optically uniform, thin coating. By controlling the thickness of the coating, refractory oxide fibers having improved tensile properties are obtained. |