Abstract: Improvements in materials have been critical to advances in the propulsion system. Over the past 50 years, many improvements have been made to nickel-based superalloys to satisfy design requirements; several key developments will be highlighted. Today, millions of pounds of superalloys are annually produced for use in turbine blades, vanes, disks, cases, and frames throughout the engine. Looking to the future, several themes emerge, although predicting the future is inherently risky.

Key words: jet engine, nickel superalloy