Padmaja Parakala

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Padmaja Parakala in Thermal Barrier Coatings

Introduction

Padmaja Parakala, an accomplished inventor based in Karnataka, India, has made significant contributions to the field of thermal barrier coatings. With a remarkable portfolio of seven patents, her latest innovations focus on enhancing the performance and durability of protective coatings in high-temperature environments, particularly in gas turbines.

Latest Patents

Among her notable patents, Padmaja has developed a Calcium-magnesium-aluminosilicate resistant coating and a process of forming this innovative coating. This process includes providing a thermal barrier coating enriched with a dopant and exposing it to specific conditions that foster the formation of a calcium-magnesium-aluminosilicate penetration resistant layer. The thermal barrier composition is enhanced with elements from rare earth and non-rare earth groups, ensuring improved performance under extreme conditions.

Additionally, her work on architectures for high-temperature thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) features a method for producing coatings characterized by ultra-low thermal conductivity and high abradability. The use of fine grain size powders through reverse co-precipitation, combined with a unique spraying technique, results in coatings with exceptional erosion resistance and fracture toughness.

Career Highlights

Padmaja is currently employed at General Electric Company, where she plays an essential role in advancing thermal barrier technology. Her work emphasizes innovative approaches that optimize the functionality of coatings needed in demanding operational settings.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Padmaja has collaborated with other distinguished professionals in the field, including Surinder Singh Pabla and Joshua Lee Margolies. These collaborations highlight her ability to work effectively in a team setting and contribute to shared goals in research and development.

Conclusion

Padmaja Parakala stands out as a leading inventor in the realm of thermal barrier coatings. Her innovative patents not only address current challenges but also pave the way for advancements in energy efficiency and durability in high-temperature applications. Her contributions significantly impact the future of thermal protection technologies in gas turbine operations and beyond.