Thermal barrier coatings (TBC's) have been used for nearly three decades to extend the performance of aircraft turbines operating in hostile environments. This includes both the moving and stationary components. Current TBC's are typically multilayer systems including an insulating ceramic top coat applied over a metallic bond coat; the latter deposited directly on the exterior surface of the component. While TBC's have been proven to exhibit the desired insulating capability, it is the durability and reliability issues which have limited their application. More specifically, a lack of fundamental data concerning the influence of microstructural degradation on the mechanical response of TBC's has impeded the development of more accurate life prediction models which would allow designs of more efficient and effective TBC's. This research focuses on these deficiencies by addressing the fundamental concepts of the mechanical properties of the various microconstituents in TBC's as a function of thermal exposure, both time and temperature. It is expected that these results will provide a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms contributing towards TBC failure and will lead to the development of more accurate life prediction models for TBC's. The specific goals of this program are to:
This program will develop a fundamental science-based understanding of the influence of dendrimer interlayers on the nanomechanical, nanotribological, chemical, and morphological properties of the ultrathin metal overlayer films. This research relies on the application of novel nanotribological and analytical techniques to characterize the microstructures and properties of sputter deposited thin film-based structures. The technological motivation for this research is grounded in the desire to develop novel coatings that will increase the capability and durability of critical and emerging engineering structures based on thin film technology. Such examples include abrasion and corrosion resistant coatings for MEMS and NEMS (micro- and nano-elecromechanical systems) devices, and new materials for microelectronic packaging. Furthermore, a basic understanding of the changes in properties induced by dendrimer underlayers on films deposited with carefully controlled grain sizes, grain morphologies, and coating thicknesses can open new horizons in the development and application of thinner, more durable coatings.
This program is designed to introduce mathematics and science (i.e., astronomy, chemistry, physics, etc) instructors and educators from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's) to the discipline of Materials Science and Engineering. This no cost workshop, which is conducted each summer at The University of Alabama, couples traditional classroom lectures with interactive laboratory activities and site visits to national laboratories and industries that are involved in materials science and engineering. Participants are supplied with all course materials, room and board, and a generous stipend. More information concerning this program is provided on the program web page:
Introducing Science Faculty to Materials Science and Engineering
