Analysis of thermal shock performance of Y₂O₃ stabilized ZrO₂ (YSZ) coating based on residual stress and micro-morphology

Ytrria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) thermal barrier coatings were prepared via atmospheric plasma spraying, and its thermal shock performance was evaluated. Residual stress was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively via electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). And image analysis and scanning electron microscopy were used to quantitatively analyze the length, direction, and proportion of the cracks in the coating. A relationship was established between the microstructure of the coating and its thermal shock performance. The results demonstrated that the spraying power altered the microstructure of the coating. The microstructure and residual stresses affected the thermal shock performance of the coating. This may be due to an increase in the spraying power, which led to a decrease in the grain size and service life of the coating.