Abrasion and Impact Resistant Hydrophobic Thermoplastic Coatings for Aircraft Landing Skis/Skids

ABSTRACT: Resodyn Corporations proposed Functionalized Polyethylene (FPE) copolymer thermoplastic coating will overcome the shortcomings of the current ski coating. The FPE will provide the long-lasting, low friction, impact-resistant, abrasion resistant and hydrophobic properties required and will also provide hydraulic fluid resistance and reduced drag during wet snow conditions. Enhancements of the FPE material solution have also been demonstrated by the unique hybridization of the FPE materials with specially formulated thermoset materials. The material properties will be evaluated over a wide temperature range (-50aC to 25aC). Resodyn Corporations proprietary Polymer Thermal Spray (PTS) technology and prior experience with thermoplastic and thermoset polymer coatings, specifically hydrophobic coatings, will enable delivery of a successful solution. The complete ski coating process for the LC-130 main and nose skis will be developed including equipment and processes. Coating repair equipment and procedures will be developed that allow on-site spot repairs that are 100% compatible with the original coating. BENEFIT: The LC-130 Hercules is part of a low volume-high demand inventory that can not tolerate a high frequency ski maintenance requirement. The proposed technology provides a durable and functioning coating that, if needed, can be quickly repaired in the field or at the depot with minimum interference to the aircraft operations. The tough, low friction, low drag property attributes of the coating and the unique polymer thermal spray application characteristics allows this technology to be applied to a wide range of military and industrial problems. When handling snow, mud, and water, surfaces coated with the durable Resodyn Corporation product will experience improved slip and shedding properties.