Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Mechanical and Civil Engineering

First Advisor

Pei-Feng Hsu

Second Advisor

Hector Gutierrez

Third Advisor

Ming Zhang

Fourth Advisor

Kegang Wang

Abstract

An analytical model of the thermal conductivity of the porous yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) layer used in the thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) is presented. Such high-temperature resistant coatings are essential to protect the metallic components of gas turbine engines. The model calculates the conductivity based on the coating's porosity, pore size distribution, and pore morphology, including the individual pore cross-section area, aspect ratio, and orientation, which are extracted from the scanning electron microscopy images. The model was verified through comparisons with numerical simulation results from a multiphysics software tool. A laser temperature gradient test was performed to validate the analytical model further. Overall, the study provides insight into the factors affecting the thermal conductivity of porous YSZ coatings and presents an analytical method to predict the property based on the coating's microstructure. The information is critical for the design of TBC systems and thermal performance evaluation during the service of such systems.

Available for download on Saturday, May 10, 2025

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