Functionally graded rings based on an epoxy matrix and SiC fillers were prepared and subjected to a compression test. For comparison, rings with homogeneous filler concentration and neat epoxy were also tested. The homogeneous and the graded rings showed the tendency to break at different locations. In order to have accurate information about the material properties, tension and compression tests were performed on isotropic specimens having various SiC volume fractions. The FE simulations of the compressed rings verified the experimental data, as the stress/strain components in the representing locations were able to predict the failure. (c) 2006 Springer Science + Business Media, Inc.