Mesoscale Thermocatalytic Reactor for Ammonia Decomposition

Under a Phase I SBIR program, METSS has demonstrated the technical feasibility of developing environmentally benign helicopter deicing/anti-icing fluids based on carbohydrates, lactates, and their derivatives. The selection of these materials was governedby models developed by METSS to identify potential replacement materials for the current glycol-based systems used for fixed-wing aircraft. The formulations developed by METSS were subjected to tests derived from SAE AMS 1424 for aircraft. BOD and CODtests were performed to assess environmental impact. Additional tests, developed by METSS, were carried out to evaluate specific materials compatibility issues originating from the application of these fluids onto helicopter components. The results of thePhase I program clearly indicate the technical feasibility of developing effective deicing/anti-icing fluids based on carbohydrate and lactate systems that address environmental impact issues without compromising performance. Near term commercializationof the proposed systems will be supported by commercial development efforts already initiated by METSS for other deicing/anti-icing technologies targeted for aircraft, runway and other transportation and facility applications. Under the Phase II program,METSS will optimize the development of the proposed technologies and fully qualify the candidate fluids against appropriate performance specifications, thus forming a solid foundation for product commercialization and near term product availability. Inaddition, METSS will work with the Army to develop performance specifications and specific technical orders that will address helicopter specific issues and describe the methods by which these materials shall be applied in the field.