Nondestructive characterization of elastic modulus of APS Ni–5Al/10hBN coating on stainless steel 304 under high temperature

Abstract

The failure mechanisms of coatings, under high thermo-mechanical loads, can be examined through finite element simulations. However, mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio are necessary to achieve an accurate model. In this study, nickel–aluminum with hexagonal boron nitride (NiAl/hBN) is deposited on stainless steel 304 substrate using atmospheric plasma spray technique. The effect of the hydrogen content in the plasma-formed gas on the microstructure, hardness, and porosity of the deposited layers is examined. Also, the mechanical properties of the coating are measured at ambient temperatures using non-contact laser ultrasound technique. Results indicated that the flow rate of hydrogen has a major impact on the coating structure and elastic properties. The inhomogeneity in the coating can be minimized by decreasing the hydrogen flow rate. The coating Young’s modulus was increased at room temperature, which slowly decreased while increase in atmospheric temperature. The behavior of Young’s modulus at high temperature causes decrease in flexural strength. In addition, the back calculations are well agreed with experimental results.