Output details
13 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Metallurgy and Materials
University of the West of Scotland
AlN thin film transducers for high temperature non-destructive testing applications
Conventional and next generation nuclear power stations require NDT technology capable of withstanding high temperature (500-600degC) and longevity where the transducer is permanently fixed to components. This paper is the culmination of approximately five years of funded research and was supported by the stake holders. Aluminium nitride is a viable alternative to the established ceramic piezoelectric materials and considerable progress has been made in promoting this new material which is based on vacuum deposition. Recent interest has come from developers of 4th generation AGRs where NDT is required inside the liquid sodium cooling circuit of the reactor