Microstructures and Properties of Thermal Barrier Coatings Plasma-Sprayed by Nanostructured Zirconia

In gas turbine engine, the study of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) has always been paid more attention because it can effectively reduce metal interface temperatures, reduce oxidation and extend life. In this paper, the microstructures and properties of TBCs plasma-sprayed by nanostructured zirconia were investigated. The TBCs had higher adhesive strength, better thermal shock resistance and micro-cracking resistance to compare with that of conventional TBCs of magnesia and yttria stabilized zirconia, which was due to closed packed structures with a small amount of laminar structures and cavities. The increase of quantities of thermal growth oxide (TGO) was mainly responsible for deteriorating the properties of TBCs.