SBIR-STTR Award

To address the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) F-35 aircrafts turbomachinery icing problem, Analytical Services and materials Inc., (AS&M) proposes testing and evaluation of AeroKret coating and its modifications consisting of viscoelastic siloxane-based polymer matrix reinforced with nanofillers, lubricating resins, and carbon nanotubes or sheets. These coatings can meet the JSF requirements for icephobic coatings. The technical merit of the proposed system is based on AS&Ms in-house data on base AeroKret coatings, commercial testing, and our subcontractor General Electrics (GE) experience on qualification for an aeronautical icephobic application. In Phase I, we propose to improve the base AeroKret coating and demonstrate their ice adhesion, erosion, impact, and corrosion properties. In Phase I option, we will down select the coating formulations and measure ice adhesion after erosion and corrosion testing and fatigue properties. We will establish manufacturing process, spray parameters, and quality assurance tests. In Phase II, we propose to coat a set of engine parts and conduct MIL-Standard qualification tests like icing, high cycle fatigue spin, Foreign Object Damage (FOD), thermal shock, fluid exposure, erosion etc. with GEs partnership. In Phase III, we propose to conduct flight qualification and durability tests. The technology will then be transitioned to manufacturing.

Benefit:
Potential benefits of the proposed icephobic coatings involve applications in military fighter jets, UAV, helicopter, commercial aircrafts, navy and commercial marine vessels, off-shore structures and platforms, and wind turbine blades.

Keywords:
icing, icing, turbomachinery, FOD, icephobic, AeroKret, Nanocoating, , Erosion, corrosion