Analysis of Pore Connectivity Modification and Structure Densification of Y-PSZ Coatings After In Situ Laser Remelting Implementing Electrochemical Test

The morphologies of Y-PSZ coatings remelted after (i.e., post-treated) or simultaneously (i.e., in situ) with their deposition were observed by optical and scanning electron microscopy in order to study the behavior of the coatings during laser irradiation. A change in the microstructure, from lamellar to dendritic, was observed in both cases. Moreover, cracks and delaminations are less emphasized for the coatings treated during deposition than for those treated after deposition. Finally, the pore connectivity was evaluated implementing an electrochemical test. Results clearly indicate that the coatings obtained by in situ laser remelting are significantly more impervious than as-sprayed coatings.