Cora Schillig

Title: Cora Schillig: Innovator in Thermal Barrier Coatings for Turbine Components

Introduction

Cora Schillig, based in Orlando, FL, has made significant contributions to the field of thermal barrier coatings, holding a remarkable total of 13 patents to her name. Her innovative work primarily focuses on enhancing the durability and performance of turbine components through the development of advanced coating technologies.

Latest Patents

Among her latest patents are two notable inventions related to turbine component thermal barrier coatings. The first patent involves a thermal barrier coating (TBC) with depth-varying material properties. This innovative coating features varying physical ductility, strength, and thermal resistivity, which optimize the performance of the turbine component. Techniques employed in her invention include applying multiple overlying layers of different material compositions or adjusting the material composition during application. Additionally, she has developed a method for applying a calcium-magnesium-aluminum-silicon (CMAS)-retardant material to mitigate reactions with combustion particulates.

The second patent focuses on integrating engineered groove features (EGFs) within TBCs to arrest crack propagation in turbine components. These grooves are strategically aligned in stress zones or arranged in a polygonal pattern to localize damage and enhance the life span of the coatings. By employing this innovative design, Schillig's work significantly improves the reliability of turbine engine components.

Career Highlights

Cora Schillig has worked with prominent companies such as Siemens Energy, Inc. and Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, where she applied her expertise to develop cutting-edge solutions for turbine technology. Her extensive experience in the field has established her as a leading inventor in aerospace materials and coatings.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Schillig has collaborated with various professionals in the industry, including her notable coworkers David J. Mitchell and Gary Brian Merrill. These collaborations have further advanced her research and contributed to successful innovations in thermal barrier technology.

Conclusion

Cora Schillig exemplifies the impact of innovative thinking in the development of advanced materials for turbine components. Her contributions, demonstrated through her patents and collaborative efforts, are crucial for improving the efficiency and durability of turbine technologies. As she continues her work, her inventions will likely lead to further advancements in the aerospace industry, reinforcing her status as a key inventor and innovator.