Repairable, Erosion Resistant Nanocoating for Extreme Environments

Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) represent an advanced class of amphibious marine vehicles designed for efficiently transporting personnel and equipment between ships and shorelines. During operation, ACVs generate substantial airflow, reaching speeds up to 300 mph, primarily over composite components and surfaces. This significant airflow is prone to saturation with saltwater and sand particulates, resulting in high erosion areas on the vehicles. Therefore, an erosion prevention solution that is durable, cost-effective, and requires minimal manpower for installation, maintenance, and repair is needed. Currently, no commercially available materials meet the Navy’s desired requirements for erosion performance in harsh marine environments. Luna Labs previously developed a polyurethane elastomer with excellent adhesion to composites and erosion resistance. Additionally, a custom paint stripper was designed to selectively target and remove the polyurethane erosion resistance coating without damaging the underlying composite, enabling the coating to be stripped and recoated as needed for on-site repair. During this project, Luna Labs will utilize their unique expertise to optimize the polyurethane elastomeric coating through resin modification and the incorporation of nanoparticles, creating a nanocoating with improved erosion resistance, durability, and repairability.