Ceramic Coatings for Advanced Heat Engines-A Review and Projection

Abstract

This report assesses the current status and future potential for the application of ceramic coatings in advanced diesel and turbine engines. A previous report describes the authors findings in greater detail. Ceramics, in contrast with metals, generally exhibit better structural and thermal capabilities at high temperatures. In general, ceramics are more resistant to creep, oxidation, corrosion, erosion, and wear, as well as being better thermal insulators. The benefits of thermal barrier coatings on the hotter side of diesel or turbine engine components are well-documented, and thermal barrier coatings are one of several applications of ceramics that are being pursued actively for heat engines. Ceramic coatings are being considered for diesel engine cylinder liners, piston caps, valve faces and seats, piston rings, and other parts and for turbine components such as combustors, blades, stators, seals, and bearings.