Improved Models for Coated CMC Components with Severe Thermal Gradients

The present proposal is aimed at developing a commercially marketable product in the form of a computer-based methodology and software tools for design and life prediction of ceramic matrix composite (CMC) components with and without environmental barrier coatings (EBCs). The proposed development will be performed by RAI, with GE Aircraft Engines as subcontractor. The proposed product will be generally applicable to a wide variety of military and commercial hardware design. The proposed approach consists of developing and experimentally validating a novel mechanistic approach. Besides providing an immediately needed tool for VAATE applications, the product will be readily marketable to designers and developers in the aerospace industry and to industrial gas turbine and automotive industries. A combined analytical modeling, laboratory testing, and software development approach is proposed. Experimental validation of each model and of the software predictions constitutes crucial part of the approach. The use of the product will result in reduced component development cost and risk by reducing the need for full scale testing. The product will also provide the means for optimal design of components, thereby reducing operational cost while ensuring structural integrity throughout design life.