Erosion Resistance Coatings for Composite Propulsor/Fan Blades

Fiber glass reinforced polymers (FRP) are used in building the structural components for ships and aircraft. As a structural part, these materials are very rigid and strong. However, they do not perform well in a cavitating environment, and they can be eroded by sand or rain fairly quickly. These deficiencies are especially serious for the propulsion and lift fans for air-cushion vehicles such as LCAC (Landing Craft, Air-Cushion) and JMAC (Joint Maritime Assault Connector). The JMAC is the future craft for transporting vehicles, cargo and personnel from the Seabase to the shore. It is the planned replacement craft for the current Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC). The proposed Phase II work will develop cost effective coatings on composite materials for insertion into naval propulsion (in air and in water) and lift fan systems that improve durability by enabling the composite blades to become highly resistant to erosion from cavitation, sand, mist, rain, or sea-water spray while providing compatibility with geometry and ease of installation.