Rapid In-situ Synthesis of high Entropy oxides for next-generation thermal barrier coatings

ongoing

This project aims to develop a streamlined, one-step method for producing and applying high entropy oxide (HEO) coatings using solution precursor plasma spray (SPPS) technology. This approach will bridge the gap between HEOs' remarkable laboratory properties and their practical applications, such as thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for gas turbine engines. HEOs are a new class of ceramics where multiple metals, in equiatomic proportions, are randomly arranged on cationic sites within an oxygen anion lattice. The high configurational entropy of these multi-cation systems ensures excellent phase stability and advantageous thermo-physical properties. Research on processing HEOs via thermal spray for TBCs is currently limited due to difficulties in synthesizing high-quality HEO particles in sufficient quantities. Traditional methods produce nanoparticles that require further processing, which can be labor-intensive and may introduce impurities that affect the HEO properties. The SPPS method overcomes these challenges by using metal salt solutions as feedstock, which react in situ within the plasma to form and subsequently deposit metal oxides directly onto the substrate. This method simplifies the process and allows for greater control over the coating's microstructure, enhancing its properties. The project will take place at University West, Sweden, where SPPS expertise and infrastructure are available. A secondment at the Institute of Plasma Physics, Czech Republic, will provide advanced deposition and characterization facilities. Additionally, a non-academic placement at Treibacher Industries, Austria, will offer industry experience and resources for commercializing the project. The researcher will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment, engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, and acquire insights into both academic and industrial applications, significantly benefiting their future career prospects.