Self-healing Superhydrophobic Anti-icing Coatings

Building upon NEI's core competency in developing and producing nanotechnology-based functional coatings, we propose to leverage our existing superhydrophobic coating technology to develop a new class of superhydrophobic coating that is both durable and has the ability to self-heal. The self-healing characteristic will maintain the superhydrophobicity of the coating as the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) undergo wear and tear as a result of routine operations. The coating has been designed to meet the demanding requirements of anti-icing coatings, and hence will address the Armys need to prevent ice accumulation on UAVs. The specialized design and construction of UAVs make them vulnerable to inclement weather, especially conditions favorable for ice formation. In Phase I, we propose to demonstrate the anti-icing capability of a superhydrophobic nanocomposite coating consisting of an organic-inorganic hybrid binder with a dispersion of nanoscale particles, combined with a self-healing functionality. The coating is sprayable. The technical concept laid out in the present proposal represents a significant advancement of the state of the art in anti-icing coatings. It is anticipated that the proposed approach will lead to a durable coating with excellent anti-icing properties, self-healing capability, along with good erosion and weather resistance. The focus of the Phase II program will be to begin to qualify the coating for use in the field. This will include all aspects of coating manufacturing, application in the field, and testing.