Structural Evolution and Mechanical Properties Modification of MELTPRO (in Situ Remelted) Processed Thermal Barrier Coatings during Thermal Shocks

Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs) are used extensively to protect components of gas turbines or diesel engines against deterioration at high temperatures, oxidation and corrosion attack by reactive species, especially sulfurs. A TBC can be manufactured by implementing atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). The existence of interconnected porosity and segmented cracks not only influences their thermal and mechanical properties, but also deteriorates the oxidation and corrosion resistance of the component. In this work, the porous structure of a TBC manufactured by APS and a hybrid plasma spray process was studied.