Effect of Single Layer Thin Film Thermal Barrier Coatings on Mechanical, Thermal and Tribological Characterization of Cast Iron (GJL 300)

Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs) are one of the most promising technologies for reducing heat dissipation through the combustion chamber in internal combustion engines. In this paper, Gadolinium Zirconate (GZ) was chosen as coating material and prepared using a solid-state synthesis process. Cast iron (GJL 300) was selected as substrate, which is predominantly used as the cylinder head material, and GZ was deposited using Electron Beam Physical Vapor Deposition Technique (EB-PVD). The mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties were evaluated as per the ASTM standards. Improved hardness and wear resistance is noted on coated substrates. The thermal conductivity and Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of the coated substrates were decreased by 2.43% and 6.15% respectively when compared to uncoated substrates. Hence, it is confirmed that thin-film TBCs will also be helpful in retaining some heat inside the combustion chamber of IC engines.