Calcia magnesia alumino silicate (CMAS) corrosion attack on thermally sprayed thermal barrier coatings: a comprehensive review

Calcia-Magnesia-Alumino Silicate (CMAS) is a form of molten siliceous residue generated at elevated temperatures within aeroengines. CMAS adheres to the surface of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) and has the potential to cause significant damage to engine components, resulting in TBC failures. The aviation industry has long recognized CMAS as a substantial threat to aircraft engines, and this threat persists today. A substantial amount of research has been carried out, primarily focusing on gaining a fundamental understanding of the degradation mechanism of traditional TBCs manufactured using air plasma spraying (APS) and electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD) technologies after CMAS attack. A thorough understanding of why CMAS forms, its role in causing severe spallation, and how to prevent it is of significant concern both academically and industrially. This review article provides a detailed examination of the chemistry of CMAS and the resulting degradation mechanisms that the TBC may encounter throughout the aeroengine service life. This article also explores recent research, incorporating case studies, on the impact of CMAS attack on the resulting chemical and structural modifications of the ceramic topcoats. Current strategies designed to mitigate CMAS infiltration and perspectives for enhanced mitigation are discussed.