This project addresses the need for a dielectric sensor technology to detect, quantify, and characterize ice accretion on aircraft components both in-flight and on the ground. A prototype apparatus will be designed to measure accurately the thickness of varying layers of water, deicing fluid, and ice-based on a shunting dielectric sensor. Sensor response to varying thick- nesses of water, deicing fluid and ice, as well as mixtures of these three components, will be characterized. An algorithm will be developed for the thickness of ice over the sensor, including ice formed over a deicing layer, and verified using the test apparatus across a representative temperature range. The system could provide a low-cost, low-power, retrofittable ice detection capability that could serve as a primary control for in-flight activation of an ice protection system, minimize deicing required at the ramp, while providing verifiable aircraft protection and maximizing holdover times. In addition, the system could provide valuable real-time data on advanced ice protection concepts as part of NASA's Aircraft Icing Technology Program.
Potential Commercial Applications: This aircraft ice detection system has the potential for eliminating the danger of clear ice in-flight. The system can also be used by airlines and airport operators for ramp deicing, and will both improve on its effectiveness and minimize the environmentally harmful discharge of deicing fluids into watersheds.
