The research area of high-temperature materials involves the investigation and characterisation of the oxidation, corrosion and structural stability of (mostly) metal materials for high-temperature applications. The aim is to obtain information which will contribute to the further development of the material. Application fields include:

• Coatings and materials for gas and steam turbines
• Materials for high-temperature fuel cells
• Heating elements based on Fe and Ni
• Materials for vehicle technology

One research focus is in situ investigation via high-temperature X-ray diffractometry. The measurement system consists of an X-ray diffractometer with a high temperature chamber, isothermal measurement and a freely selectable temperature programme of up to 1600oC. This method enables:

• In situ identification of corrosion products
• Kinetic analysis of individual reactions
• Simultaneous detection of heat expansion in every phase in the oxide layer and the substrate
• In situ detection of mechanical stresses in the crystal lattice
• In situ determination of recrystallisation processes

The analysis of the structure of the oxide layer and/or the material system is carried out via field emission scanning electron microscopy with site-resolved element analysis.

Application examples

• Development of multifunctional coatings with thermal insulation and corrosion protection, using the particular properties of metal micro or nano sized particles
• Phase stability of insulation layers made of partially stabilised ZrO2 and the development of new concepts for higher temperatures
• MCrAIY coatings for turbine blades: formation of oxide coating and interdiffiusion, durability
• Recrystallisation processes or structural degradation of alloys
• Influence of steam on corrosion resistance of interconnects for high-temperature fuel cells
• High-temperature oxidation of FeCrAl alloys.