Innovative Erosion Resistant Coating for Leading Edges of V-22 Rotor Blades

The leading edge of the V-22 rotor blade is made of titanium and nickel abrasion strips bonded to the composite substrate (blade). Although effective for rain erosion protection, nickel and titanium have poor sand erosion resistance. There is a need to protect the nickel and titanium against sand erosion during operation. The Navy is also interested in removing the metallic erosion guard and replacing it with an innovative erosion protection system. Hontek has developed extremely erosion resistant elastomers under prior DOD contracts. This Phase II contract will modify the elastomer compositions to improve heat conductivity, demonstrate manufacturing scalability, fabricate molded boots, optimize adhesive system for adhesion and removability, develop repair resin and repair procedures, and conduct sand and rain erosion testing. It is expected that superior erosion protection system that is compatible with V-22 deicing system will be developed.