Researchers at Samara University named after Korolev have developed an experimental sample of plasma coating for the protection of rocket and aircraft engines. It looks like a chain mail made of disc-shaped scales less than 0.5 mm thick.

Scientists believe that such a coating will help extend the life of the units, and also in the future will allow to create more powerful engines.

The press service of the university explained that we are talking about a nanostructured thermal barrier coating that protects engine parts from the negative impact of extreme temperatures. It is expected that the innovation will increase the life of hot engine parts by 2-3 times.

In addition, plasma coating can be applied to small gas turbine engines, which are installed on some types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Scientists are testing the "chainmail", heating it to the operating temperatures of gas turbine engines, and then cooling it to ambient temperature. In this way, Samara researchers determine the thermal fatigue and durability of the coating. The tests will require at least six months, summed up in the press service of the university.