A new low infrared emissivity Ag-YCrO3 composite coating for high-temperature infrared stealth applications

Abstract

The rise in temperatures in the hot-end components of aircraft engines underscores the need for the development of infrared stealth coatings capable of withstanding high-temperature conditions, thereby improving aircraft survivability. However, creating a high-performance infrared stealth coating for such environments presents a significant challenge due to the extreme thermal stresses and stringent material requirements. In this study, we design and fabricate a novel YCrO₃-reinforced Ag matrix composite coating with low infrared emissivity, high temperature resistance, and strong adhesion. The coating is characterized under simulated aircraft service conditions. Results reveal that the as-sprayed coating exhibits a low infrared emissivity of 0.376 (3–5 μm, 900 °C) and an adhesion strength of 17.58 ± 0.58 MPa. Furthermore, the coating demonstrates exceptional durability in high-temperature marine environments, as confirmed by a salt spray-thermal exposure cycle test. After 20 cycles, the coating shows no structural failure, with emissivity decreasing to 0.279 (3–5 μm, 900 °C) and bond strength increasing to 33.90 ± 1.10 MPa. This study demonstrates the potential for achieving high-temperature infrared stealth using a low-emissivity perovskite-reinforced noble metal composite coating.