SEM, EDS and WAXD microstructural characterisation of a new enamel used as a protective and thermal barrier

A new enamel has been developed to be used as a protective and thermal barrier coating of aircraft engine components subjected to thermal shocks and corrosion. This enamel is based upon the oxide system SiO2-BaO CaO-Cr2O3 and can stand about 1100°C without losing its adherence and main protective characteristics. The microstructural element concentration and crystalline phases have been studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) in order to offer a better understanding of the enamel characteristics.