Synchroton X-ray studies of formation of luminescent particles for temperature sensing in FeCrAl steel

Research Project, 2020 – 2021

The overriding purpose of this project is to study the spontaneous growth of an oxide layer on FeCrAl(Y) steel, by using X-ray diffraction techniques at a large-scale synchrotron radiation facility. The specific aims of project are to study the growth of nano crystalline particles of Y3Al5O12, that form in the surface oxide layer in air at elevated temperatures, and, subsequently to investigate if a portion of the Y3+ ions in Y3Al5O12 can be replaced with luminescent ions (e.g. Ce3+), to create particles of, e.g., Y3-xC3xAl5O12.

The project will lead to new understanding of the nature of the surface oxide layer in FeCrAl(Y) steel and, in particular, whether a portion of the Y3+ ions in naturally occurring Y3Al5O12 surface particles can be substituted for luminescent ions, such as Ce3+. If that turns out to be the case, luminescent particles may be exploited as a means for probing the temperature of these materials, which represents a new avenue of product development for Kantahl. Additionally, the project will raise the awareness and competence in techniques at large-scale facilities within Kanthal.