ADVANCED COATING TECHNOLOGY FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE GAS TURBINE COMPONENTS

We proposed in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney to develop advanced coating technology for high-performance gas turbine components, utilizing our innovative, patented, pollution-free, low cost Jet Vapor Deposition process. The JVD process uses supersonic jets in "low vacuum" to propel atoms, molecules, or clusters toward substrates. JVD offers: (1) extremely high rates of concentrated, efficient deposition; (2) low vacuum operation which simplifies automation versus high vacuum PVD systems; low temperature, ion-assisted processing permitting deposition on thermally sensitive substrates; (3) capability for high rate "reactive" formation of alloys, intermetallics, compounds and multi-layer nanostructures. Pratt & Whitney has selected two promising applications for development: i) Titanium-nitride based erosion-resistant coatings on fan and compressor components; and ii) Multi-layer, nickel-aluminide nanostructured coatings for service as strong, crack-resistant, thermally-durable, oxidation-barriers on turbine airfoils. JPC will prepare experimental JVD coatings on test "coupons" provided by P&W. P&W will then test these coatings using standard techniques. JPC and P&W will meet to jointly evaluate coating test results and projected economics of JVD manufacturing processes. JPC and P&W will then assess prospective costs and performance benefits of JVD coating technologies for advanced jet engine applications.