NiCoCrAl/YSZ laminate composites fabricated by EB-PVD

Two NiCoCrAl/YSZ laminate composites (A and B) with different metal-layer thickness (≈35 μm and 14 μm, respectively) were fabricated by electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD). Their microstructure was examined and their mechanical properties were compared with the 289 μm thick NiCoCrAl monolithic foil produced by EB-PVD. Both the YSZ and NiCoCrAl layers of the laminate composites had columnar grain structure. But the periodic layer interfaces limited the columnar grain size. Some pores between the columns were also observed. It was found that the strength of the laminate A was equal approximately to that of the NiCoCrAl monolithic foil, and that laminate B had the greater strength. Moreover, the density of the foils decreased with the increasing thickness ratio of YSZ/NiCoCrAl layers and the increasing the layer number. Thus, comparing with the NiCoCrAl monolithic foil, the NiCoCrAl/YSZ laminate composites not only had the equal or greater strength, but also had the much greater specific strength.

► The metal–ceramic laminate composites were fabricated by EB-PVD.
► Both metal and ceramic layers consisted of straight columns with banded structures.
► Columnar grain size was limited by the periodic layer interfaces in the laminates.
► Effect of columns on fracture property was decreased by limiting layer thickness.
► Laminates showed greater specific strength than monolithic metal foil.