Research
My research centers on high-temperature ceramic materials for aerospace applications, combining materials synthesis, advanced characterization, and thermodynamic modeling.
Thermal and Environmental Barrier Coatings
Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) and environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) protect turbine components in jet engines, enabling higher operating temperatures for improved fuel efficiency.
- Multiphase coating design — Optimized phase assemblages for durability
- Rare-earth systems — Y and Gd zirconate and aluminate compositions
- Garnet-containing compositions — Phase stability in complex oxide systems
CMAS Deposit Interactions
CMAS (Calcium-Magnesium-Alumino-Silicate) deposits form when engines ingest sand, dust, and volcanic ash. These deposits melt and degrade protective coatings at high temperatures.
- Deposit chemistry — Real-world engine deposit characterization
- Reaction mechanisms — Silicate melt infiltration and reaction behavior
- Degradation prediction — Coating lifetime modeling
Hot Corrosion
Oxide and sulfate deposits cause hot corrosion of nickel-based superalloys in turbine components.
- Statistical analysis — Quantifying corrosion attack patterns
- Mixed oxide-sulfate systems — Stability and reaction behavior
- Alloy-coating interactions — Substrate response to corrosive environments
Characterization Techniques
| Technique | Application |
|---|---|
| SEM | Microstructure imaging |
| EDS | Elemental mapping |
| EPMA | Quantitative composition |
| High-T In-Situ XRD | Phase evolution |
| TGA | Mass change measurements |
Impact
This research enables:
- Extended engine maintenance intervals
- Higher operating temperatures and efficiency
- Flight operations in challenging environments
- Reduced lifecycle costs for aviation