This advancement could reduce fuel usage, prolong turbine lifespan and support more sustainable energy solutions.
Researchers from the University of Virginia and Harvard University (United States of America) have discovered new thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) that could significantly boost the performance and efficiency of gas turbines, which are essential components in power plants and jet engines.
The study explores the effects of substituting iron into yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) on the material's ability to absorb radiative heat in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This modification could pave the way for innovations that enhance the efficiency of everyday energy systems.
Gas turbines, vital for electricity generation and aircraft propulsion, operate at extremely high temperatures. Thermal barrier coatings protect these turbines, ensuring safe and efficient operation. Enhancing turbine efficiency is key, as these systems consume large amounts of fuel. Higher efficiency translates to less fuel burned for the same energy output, leading to cost savings for consumers and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions—both crucial steps as the world moves toward more sustainable energy solutions.
“Our research shows that by substituting iron into YSZ, we can fine-tune the material’s optical absorption properties, which has direct implications for controlling heat transfer. This could lead to turbines that run cooler, last longer and operate more efficiently, contributing to a more sustainable energy future,” has stated the lead researcher Shunshun Liu.
This progress could lead to reduced fuel costs for airlines, making flights more affordable and lowering their environmental impact. Additionally, it could result in lower electricity bills as power plants become more efficient and require less maintenance.
“This research, using a combined theory and experimental approach, pushes the boundaries of what's possible in materials science. We've taken a widely used material and uncovered a new mechanism to manipulate its optical properties, allowing us to rethink how we approach heat management, especially at extreme temperatures. It's a step forward not just for turbine efficiency, but for the entire field of high-temperature materials. This work opens exciting possibilities for thermal, environmental, and now, radiation barrier coatings in everything from energy systems to advanced manufacturing, where precision heat control is critical for innovation,” has added Professor Prasanna Balachandran, co-author from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at UVA.
Furthermore, this discovery holds significant promise for extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure. By enhancing heat management, it could reduce wear and tear on turbines, leading to fewer costly repairs and minimising downtime in power generation. The study, which integrated experimental measurements with advanced computational modelling, identified crucial optical absorption bands in iron-substituted YSZ. These insights can help engineers optimise turbine performance, laying the foundation for future advancements in materials science and ultimately boosting the reliability and efficiency of vital energy infrastructure.