In the Materials Lifing in Extreme Conditions working group, we build on our renowned high expertise, addressing corrosion at high temperature, especially for gas turbines and heat exchangers in thermal energy systems. This is now expanding towards greener applications, applying knowledge gained over recent decades to novel materials applications, such as those linked to H2 combustion and concentrated solar power.
Our previous research has included both experimental and modelling work, targeted to understand the potential failure and life of materials in aggressive environments such as :
- Gas turbines, including with unique materials and operating conditions (Siemens Energy)
- Fireside corrosion in coal, waste or biomass (EPSRC, US DoE, BF2RA)
- Oxidation-carburization in AGR conditions (EDF)
- Supercritical CO2 (EPSRC funded)
- Plastic recycling facilities (Innovate UK Recycling Technologies Ltd)
- Corrosion under insulation (KTP, CorrosionRADAR Ltd)
- Molten salt corrosion (various)
- Environmentally assisted cracking (various)
The current aim of our working group is to help accelerate the uptake of green technologies and assist in the conversion of historic plant. This will be facilitated by providing an understanding of the mechanism involved in the combustion of H2 and the use of molten salts. Examples of our facilities and experience include:
- Controlled atmosphere furnace testing
- Burner rig testing
- Combustion/steam/gasification pilot plant
- Analysis facilities including thermogravimetric analysis, advanced microscopy, and dimensional metrology for metal loss
- Thermodynamic simulations of operating conditions.
