HybridSil Icephobic Nanocomposites for Next Generation Aircraft In-Flight Icing Measurement and Mitigation

The purpose of this SBIR program is to adapt NanoSonic's HybridSil® nanocomposites and combine high erosion resistance, low ice adhesion, and passive anti-icing functionality with Metal Rubber sensor technology to enable in-flight icing measurement and mitigation for next generation aircraft. During Phase I, NanoSonic successfully demonstrated novel sensor design concepts coupled with HybridSil® low ice adhesion passive anti-icing nanocomposite coatings. NanoSonic realized outstanding passive icing protection through icing wind tunnel testing, completely preventing ice formation in select conditions and with excellent ice shedding measured to -20�F. Low ice adhesion with outstanding erosion resistance was realized, retaining low ice adhesion properties following 500 mph rain erosion exposure. NanoSonic demonstrated exceptional icing event sensing capabilities in the icing wind tunnel, responding in near real time to environmental condition changes with negligible drift or hysteresis in test conditions spanning -4 to 26�F, 100 to 200mph windspeeds. Sensitivity to observe ice accretion onset and build, with distributed sensing of thickness and airspeed, was demonstrated in near real time. NanoSonic will build on these results to optimize, qualify and transition the technology through extensive development, testing, and prime partner interaction during Phase II.

As the technology is matured and qualified, multiple manufacturers will integrate this technology within their designs to help enable all-weather operation with existing and next generation aircraft. The proposed materials are technology enablers for next generation airframe structures and engine components where lightweight, durable materials and low power requirements mandate innovative approaches to not only mitigate ice formation, but to enable measurement of icing conditions that promote unwanted ice formation and concurrently provide erosion protection. In addition to aircraft, the proposed nanocomposites will be useful for a broad range of commercial rotorcraft and jet engine applications.

The proposed multifunctional nanocomposites integrate high durability and hydrophobic functionality, which is marketable to an extremely broad range of applications outside of aircraft. Anti-icing functionality is useful in nearly any vehicle or structure for missions where icing or the risk of ice formation inhibits progress. Inherent water and ice repellency also suggests minimized water ingress, which is a significant problem in nearly all applications where composites are used for metal replacement. For metallic materials, the proposed materials may reduce corrosion, reducing maintenance and concerns of potential structural integrity damage resulting from corrosion. Similar hydrophobic nanocomposites can also significantly reduce frictional drag, enhancing performance. Commercial applications are nearly limitless for higher performance, cost and energy saving commercial aircraft and automobiles. Because of the dynamic applicability of NanoSonic's nanocomposites, the potential market spans from military to civilian, opening the door to endless possibilities in multiple industries.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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