Work

Evaluation of the thermal insulation performance and stress distribution of SiC/YSZ thermal barrier coatings via finite element simulation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Crack initiation and propagation are key factors limiting the thermal cycling lifetime of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs). The incorporation of silicon carbide nanowires (SiCnw) and particles (SiCp) can significantly improve thermal cycling performance, but potentially affecting its thermal insulation and the development of thermal stresses. This study used finite element simulation to analyze the effects of varying SiCnw and SiCp contents on the thermomechanical behavior of YSZ composites, assess their thermal insulation and stress distribution as an interlayer (TC1), and verify thermal cycling performance through coating preparation. Results showed that increasing SiCnw content raised the thermal conductivity, elastic modulus, and critical J-integral of the composites, while decreasing the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). A high SiCnw content effectively alleviates interfacial stress concentration during the cooling stage, but may impair thermal insulation performance. A balanced approach to these two issues can be achieved through rational structural design. Thermal cycling testing further demonstrates that adjusting the SiCnw to SiCp ratio significantly extends coating life, particularly at higher nanowire content. This study provides a theoretical basis for optimizing the design and development of YSZ TBCs materials and coatings.

Source: Materials & Design

DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2025.115228

Authors: Dongsheng Wang, Shawei Tang, Hongzhi Ji, You Wang, Xiaodong Zhang

Institutions: Harbin Institute of Technology, China State Shipbuilding (China)

Language: English

Topic: High-Temperature Coating Behaviors

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,650