Ceramic Materials Optimization and Thermocouple Fabrication

MesoScribe Technologies will develop and validate ceramic thermocouples capable of measuring 1600°C for applications in gas turbine engines.  A number of semi-conducting ceramic oxides have been identified as temperature sensors.  Ceramic compositions will be tailored to yield stable and reproducible thermoelectric outputs.  Sensors will be fabricated using Direct Write Thermal Spray technology enabling sensors to be integrated onto components and embedded within thermal barrier coatings.  Sensor performance and durability will be validated on coupons and scaled to components in later project stages in cooperation with the Teams OEM partners. 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.