Abstract

Nickel based superalloys continue to be widely used in elevated temperature structural applications that demand high strength, damage tolerance and environmental resistance. Key applications of these materials include gas turbine engines used in the aviation and energy generation sectors. The socio-economic demand for increased performance, reliability and efficiency from such engines necessitates future engine designs that will subject key engine components to even higher temperatures and stresses than are currently experienced. The scope for further development of nickel based superalloys to meet this need is limited and, as such, commercial opportunities exist for new materials with superior capabilities.