Developing next generation high temperature MoSi2 materials

Research Project , 2019 – 2023

The pro ject is aimed at developing a new generation of alumina forming ceramic composites for structural applications in demanding environments. The formation of a protective alumina scale will allow operation at temperatures up to 1400-1500°C under conditions where other silica forming structural ceramics cannot be used, while an optimization of the chemistry and structure of the material for mechanical performance will allow it to outperform state-of-the-art FeCrAlbased materials for structural use. This will be achieved by a systematic exploration of the chemical composition and microstructure of the molybdenum aluminosilicide (Mo(Si,Al)2) system currently used for nonstructural electrical heating applications. The structure and properties will be tailored by optimizing the aluminium content and use of additional alloying elements to obtained a balance between high temperature oxidation/corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. The alloying development will be supported by thermodynamic modelling and advanced characterization techniques to reveal the underlying mechanisms. The result is two-fold: (i) it will increase the competitiveness of Swedish industry through new products in the field of high temperature materials and allow Kanthal to explore completely new markets; (ii) it will lead to higher thermal efficiencies in many energy generating or consuming processes, thereby directly contribute to a more sustainable future.