Interaction between Yb2O3-Y2O3 co-stabilized ZrO2 ceramic powder and molten silicate deposition, and its implication on thermal barrier coating application

Abstract

Currently molten silicate deposition in thermal barrier coatings application is an ongoing challenge for material scientists. To some extent, it has already been the greatest weakness of traditional yttria partially stabilized zirconia material. Thus new material candidates and strategies that can mitigate calcium‑magnesium-alumina-silicate corrosion are urgently needed. To this end, a ‘model’ experiment involving high-temperature interactions between Yb 2 O 3 -Y 2 O 3 co-stabilized ZrO 2 ceramic powders and CMAS glass was conducted in this study. This study proposes a simple but effective methodology for comparing the transport behavior of Yb 3+ and Y 3+ during the interaction which provides further understanding of the anti-corrosion mechanism. After exposure at 1300 °C for various durations, less degradation was observed in YbYSZ samples. Further analyses ascribed the enhancement of CMAS-mitigating capability to the low diffusion rate of Yb 3+ , which was highly beneficial for maintaining the microstructure and phase stability. Additionally, the potential of YbYSZ as a CMAS-resistant material for TBCs was supported by the dramatically improved thermo-physical and mechanical properties of YbYSZ compared to those of conventional YSZ. • A simple but effective method for comparing the transport behavior was proposed. • The Yb 2 O 3 and Y 2 O 3 co-stabilized ZrO 2 shows enhanced CMAS resistance. • YbYSZ shows better thermo-physical properties as compared with traditional YSZ.