Underwater plasma processing of stabilized zirconia for thermal barrier coatings

The influence of powder technology on the spraying process is growing. The use of powders of different morphologies results in a variety of coating properties. Plasma processing of ceramic composite powders underwater produces dense and spherical powders with excellent morphologies. Coatings of improved quality are produced by spraying these powders. This paper describes the concept of producing zirconia powders by a plasma process that is performed underwater. The most important parameters and standards are highlighted. Moreover, the influence of powder characteristics on coating properties will be described and some results presented.