Passive Dynamic Icephobic Coatings

The proposed research investigates the feasibility of developing an innovative icephobic coating that will prevent ice accretion on metallic and composite surfaces via the phenomenon of passive dynamics. The feasibility studies involve designing a surface that stresses the ice-surface interface as the ice forms. A material will be incorporated in the coating formulation which will exist in a passive or dormant state under most environmental conditions, but upon the imposition of ice-forming conditions the material becomes "active". This dynamic action is expected to form a truly icephobic coating. The success of the research program will result in a significant step forward in the state of the art of suppressing ice accretion upon a variety of different surfaces where ice buildup can cause serious problems.