Manipulation of air plasma spraying parameters for the production of ceramic coatings

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were sprayed on stainless steel coupons by an air plasma thermal spray (APS) technique. The porosity of the topcoat was varied by controlling the different spraying parameters. Three types of thermal shock tests were designed to determine the TBCs life. Effect of different spraying parameters on the thermal shock life was observed. The spraying distance was found to be an important parameter that controls the thermal shock life. It was observed that the thermal shock properties could be related with an empirical parameter called the critical thermal shock parameter (CTSP). Fracture toughness (K_IC) was determined by Vicker's indentation technique and it was observed that for a certain range of the porosity the toughness increased with increase of porosity. The possible increase in thermal shock life for a certain range of CTSP may be attributed to residual stresses and increase in fracture toughness of the topcoat. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.