Intelligent Probes for Enhanced Non-Destructive Determination of Degradation in Hot-Gas-Path Components

65362 Increased turbine engine efficiency is often achieved by increasing operating temperatures and pressures. However, the system must be carefully optimized in order to prevent undue damage that can reduce the service life of the engine. Currently, there are few self-referencing thermographic or pressure-sensitive phosphors, designed for these high-efficiency engines, that would contribute to this optimization. This project will develop a self-referencing phosphor design that enables easy discrimination of temperature and pressure effects. In addition, the phosphors will be designed to integrate easily into common thermal spray coating techniques. Phase I will consist of materials research, phosphor design, optical modeling, and development of fabrication methods. Turbine engine manufacturers will be consulted in order to design a phosphor that meets the needs of these high-efficiency engines. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Land based turbine engines for power generation are used not only by power utilities, but by other industries such as glass, metal, and semiconductor manufacturers. With the current state of energy demand, additional generation capacity will be required, and efficiency will be at a premium.