Elevated temperature nanomechanics of coatings for high-temperature applications: a review

In this review of the state of the art in high-temperature nanomechanical testing of coatings for energy sector applications, the key factors that influence the accuracy of the measurements are identified and key strategies to increase data accuracy highlighted. Elevated temperature nanomechanical studies of coating systems for high-temperature energy applications including (i) coating of components for aero-engines, (ii) solid oxide fuel cells and actuators (iii) structural and radiation tolerant coatings for nuclear applications and (iv) high-performance machining of hard-to-cut aerospace materials have been chosen to highlight their differing requirements in terms of maximum temperature, indenter material choice and test environment.