Addressing Ash-Related Challenges from Biomass Combustion using Ceramic and Composite Coatings

Biomass-fired boilers deteriorate from ash that deposits on and corrodes the heating surface. Protective coatings are an effective countermeasure to address both issues. This thesis focuses on developing four types of coatings for boilers and their performance evaluation using an in-house apparatus. The thesis reveals the mechanism that reduces ash deposition using a lotus-leaf-like coating, inspired by nature, and corrosion minimising using the developed coatings. The performance comparison among the four coatings is consolidated, providing options for surface engineering to solve ash deposition and corrosion in boilers.