Ceramics are used to coat other materials, usually metals, to protect them from high temperatures, moisture, oxygen, wear, corrosive
fluids and body fluids. Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) have their greatest application in protecting metal parts used in
heat engines. The metal parts have the strength required for heat engine operation; however, they cannot withstand the high
temperatures necessary for efficient and clean operation of the heat engine. TBCs provide this protection.
This edition of Progress in Ceramic Technology series is a compilation of articles published on TBCs by The American Ceramic
Society (ACerS). These publications include the American Ceratnic Society Bulletin, Journal of the American Ceramic
Society, International Journal ofApplied Ceramic Technology, Ceramic Engineering and Science Proceedings (CESP) and Ceramic
Transactions (CT).
Papers in this edition are divided into five categories: Applications, Material Improvements and Novel Compositions, Developments
in Processing, Testing and Characterization, Mechanical Properties, and Thermal Properties. The publication citations
are included after each title in the table of contents.
Other articles on thermal barrier coatings can be located by searching the Society’s website at www.ceramics.org.