Ceramic Materials Optimization and Thermocouple Fabrication

MesoScribe Technologies will improve the performance of ceramic thermocouples for applications in gas turbine engines. A number of semi-conducting ceramic oxides have been identified as temperature sensors in Phase I. The Phase II project will optimize the material’s chemistry and sensor fabrication processing to yield stable thermoelectric output at 1250°C. Sensor performance and durability will be validated on coupons using high temperature furnace and burner rig testing. Ceramic sensor compatibility with conventional thermal barrier coatings will be assessed and requite dielectric coatings will be developed. Components will be selected during the project and instrumented with thermocouples for engine testing to enable a TRL-5 / TRL-6 by project-end. BENEFIT: The capability to monitor the health of aircraft engine components and prognosticate system performance in real-time is required for a number of military aircraft and weapons platforms. Operating temperatures are being pushed higher requiring the use of highly engineered materials and protective thermal barrier coatings. Ceramic thermocouple sensors will be developed for use in extreme environments. Specific applications of interest include gas turbine engine components for aero turbofans and power generation, thermal protection systems, hypersonic engine instrumentation, and aerospace components.