Microstructure modification of Y2O3 stabilized ZrO2 thermal barrier coatings by laser glazing and the effects on the hot corrosion resistance

Y2O3 stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are prone to hot corrosion by molten salts. In this study, the microstructure of atmospheric plasma spraying YSZ TBCs is modified by laser glazing in order to improve the corrosion resistance. By optimizing the laser parameters, a similar to 18 mu m smooth glazed layer with some vertical cracks was produced on the coating surfaces. The as-sprayed and modified coatings were both exposed to hot corrosion tests at 700 and 1000 degrees C for 4 h in V2O5 molten salt, and the results revealed that the modified one had improved corrosion resistance. After hot corrosion, the glazed layer kept structural integrity, with little evidence of dissolution. However, the vertical cracks in the glazed layer acted as the paths for molten salt penetration, accelerating the corrosion of the non-modified coating. Further optimization of the glazed layer is needed in the future work.