J. CIZEK, M. KHOR, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
The changes in phase composition of titania (TiO2) coatings were studied with respect to the in-flight characteristics of the powder during atmospheric plasma spraying. Utilizing SprayWatch CCD camera system, average temperature and velocity of TiO2 particles were recorded within the plasma jet under various spraying parameters modified according to Taguchi design of experiment. Six unique combinations of parameters resulting in low/medium/high in-flight temperatures and/or velocities were selected for coating preparation. Phase composition of the produced coatings was assessed using X-ray diffractometry and numerically specified using Rietveld analysis. Relative changes of the composition with respect to the phase composition of the initial heat treated powder feedstock were observed with respect to the measured in-flight characteristics. It was found the in-flight temperature has moderate effect on the phase composition of the produced coatings. For comparison purposes, additional coatings were deposited utilizing cold spray technology. Inferior phase composition changes were observed in cold sprayed samples.
Summary: The changes in phase composition of TiO2 coatings deposited under different plasma spray conditions were investigated using Rietveld analysis. The results were evaluated with respect to the in-flight temperature and velocity of particles within the deposition process. Analogous cold sprayed coatings were investigated.