Evaluation of ZrB₂/SiC coating for high-temperature alloy under high-energy laser

Although ZrB₂/SiC coating has been widely used in high-temperature protection, it remains unclear whether it can be applied in high-energy laser protection. In this study, ZrB₂/SiC spherical powder was synthesized, and ZrB₂/SiC coatings were deposited on the surfaces of high-temperature alloys via atmospheric plasma spraying. Laser ablation tests were conducted on the ZrB₂/SiC coatings. The results indicated that laser parameters, such as irradiation time and laser power density, significantly influenced the phase composition and morphology of the coating. Due to the high temperatures induced by the laser, the ZrB₂/SiC coating oxidized rapidly, generating various glass and ceramic phases. As the temperature rose further, the glass phase content increased, encapsulating ceramic particles until vaporization occurred. The ceramic particles experienced partial sintering, which enhanced the coating's reflectivity. During laser ablation, the vaporization of the glass phase dissipated heat, while the sintering of the ceramic phase increased reflectivity, both of which contributed to improved laser protection performance.