Structure and thermodynamics of oxides/carbides/nitrides/borides at high temperatures

• Published in: American Ceramic Society. American Ceramic Society Bulletin 2023-03, Vol.102 (2), p.28
• Main Authors: Hong, Qi-Jun, Ushakov, Sergey V, Lilova, Kristina, Navrotsky, Alexandra, McCormack, Scott J
• Format: Magazinearticle
• Language: English
• Subjects: Atmospheric entry; Atomic structure; Borides; Extreme environments; High temperature; Leading edges; Material properties; Mechanical properties; Nuclear fission; Nuclear fusion; Nuclear thermal propulsion; Onboard equipment; Optical properties; Planetary atmospheres; Propulsion systems; System effectiveness; Thermodynamic properties; Thermodynamics
• ISSN: 0002-7812; 1945-2705

Humankind has an innate appetite for exploration, energy, and speed. These areas all require materials that operate in extreme environments, for example, temperatures above 1,500 degrees C. While exploring the universe can be cold, reentry into a planet's atmosphere can be hot. Energy production through nuclear fission can reach temperatures of up to about 1,700 degrees C and even higher for nuclear fusion, while nuclear thermal propulsion systems require temperatures up to about 2,800 degrees C to provide thrust to propel next-generation spacecrafts to Mars and beyond. When traveling at hypersonic speeds on Earth, leading edges can reach temperatures of about 2,700 degrees C at Mach 8. High-temperature thermal barrier systems as well as high-temperature environmental barrier coatings are required to protect both people and equipment on board from these high temperatures. To effectively design high-temperature material systems, one must have a clear understanding of both their thermodynamic properties and atomic structure. Understanding thermodynamics is essential to determining the longevity (stability) of a system in its operating environment, while atomic structure influences the desired material properties (e.g., mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical).