Abstract Thermal barrier systems of columnar porous zirconia will be used for developing a general simulator that can be utilized to predict the thermomechanical evolution and performance of highly nonlinear multilayers. Microscale characterization tools will identify key phenomena, guide construction of models and provide benchmarks for hierarchical approaches. Methods ranging from first principles schemes to phenomenological continuum mechanics will be utilized with length-scale linkages, and applicability to other materials and systems will be demonstrated. The broader impacts will include a better understanding of thermal barrier systems, the development of better products for thermal protection and improved performance and efficiency of gas turbine engines. This will open avenues for improved design, performance and reliability for thermal barrier systems at higher than current temperatures. A graduate student, undergraduates and high school students will gain experience in research in an important interdisciplinary area encompassing mechanical engineering and materials science.
