Aeroengine materials: Past, present and future

Advanced materials have been a key technology throughout the history of the aeroengine. The drive for performance has demanded materials with ever greater high temperature strength whilst at the same time having the lowest possible density. Current materials are however now nearing the limits of their potential. New materials are emerging which offer a step change in capability, however these technologies must demonstrate their value within the current cost dominated market place. This paper reviews the development of aeroengine materials drawing on examples of components for which materials, or associated manufacturing technologies have led to significant improvements in performance. Materials for the future will be discussed, including both the evolutionary development of existing systems and the so called revolutionary material classes. Not neglected are the manufacturing and modelling technologies which will underpin any increase in materials performance or reductions in development lead times.