Research
Carburization of Stainless Steels
In collaboration with Swagelok™, we have been studing the remarable properties of stainless steels carburized at low temperatures. Contrary to ordinary expectations, this allows very high carbon concentrations in the case without the formation of detrimental carbides. The result is improved surface hardness, wear resistance, fatigue properties, and even improved corrosion properties.
Oxidation of Ni-based Superalloys
Ni-based "superalloys" are used in demanding high-temperature environments, such as the turbine in jet engines. These parts are typically coated with a metallic "bond coat", which forms a protective Al2O3 scale upon heating. A YSZ "top coat" is then added as a thermal barrier coating. One of the best predictors of failure in this system is the thickness of the Al2O3 layer. We study the in situ oxidation behavior of these alloys with our collaborators at Argonne National Laboratory using synchrotron X-rays at the Advanced Photon Source. We are also developing a new confocal microscope to allow spatially resolved stress measurements in these alloys.
The Ceramics of Bernard Palissy
Bernard Palissy [French Potter, 1510-1589] was an innovator in new ceramic materials for pottery.
Publication List
Publications since 1994 in PDF format. |
