Thomas Bourdeau

"I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard University, where I focus on the synthesis and characterization of advanced thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) like YAG and YbAG (yttrium/ytterbium barium aluminum garnet) for high-temperature turbine applications. These materials are critical for improving energy efficiency and durability in extreme thermal environments.

I earned my master’s degree in Materials and Structures for Aeronautics and Space in 2020, followed by a PhD in France, where I developed ceramic matrix composites reinforced with carbon fibers and ultra-high-temperature ceramics for atmospheric reentry. My work led to a patent and involved testing oxidation resistance at temperatures exceeding 2500 °C using oxyacetylene and plasma torches.

During my postdoctoral position at Alfred University, I worked on 3D printing of silicon carbide and investigated microstructural evolution using advanced techniques such as microtomography and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). My research bridges materials science and engineering to address challenges in aerospace and energy technologies."