Characterisation of the microstructural and morphological features of coatings and their evolution and degradation at high temperatures

Research and development is required to deliver an improved metrological framework for the characterisation of high temperature coatings that will enable accurate monitoring of their quality from the point of manufacture, through service to end of life. The aim of this project is to identify the manufacturing parameters most likely to alter the microstructure of the coating and cause uncertainty in the coating life. Coatings with different functions fail by distinctly different mechanisms; two specific mechanisms are of particular interest, these being fretting fatigue and thermal/chemical degradation. Characterisation of the coatings microstructural features through X-ray computed tomography, 2D and 3D microscopy and ion beam milling over a range of length scales from μm to mm, and temperatures shall be conducted to determine their relationship to the thermo-mechanical performance of the coating. Key to this project will be the identification of the macro and micro-mechanical properties of the coating system (modulus, adhesion, compositional gradients, thermal expansion etc.) and the measurement of these in relation to the initial manufacturing defects and subsequent damage evolving during service.

Please note that this is an Engineering Doctorate and not a PhD - you will be based at the sponsor premises for the duration of the studentship. Please contact [Email Address Removed] for more information

Summary of project aims:
1. Develop preparation techniques for the microstructural characterisation of ceramic and metallic coatings
2. Identify processing parameters that directly influence the microstructural and morphological features of the coatings
3. Evaluate the evolution of these microstructural features as a function of service aging and determine their influence on the macro and micro-mechanical and thermal properties of the coating systems
4. Adapt non-destructive evaluation techniques for such as flash thermography and XCT to the detection of manufacturing defects and damage appearing in service

The successful candidate will be hosted at the National Physical Laboratory within the Advanced Engineered Materials group with access to a range of novel and specialised characterisation and analysis tools. They will have access to a range of industrial contacts and experience in a range of project activities that will run alongside their main project.