The Anti-Ice Materials International Laboratory

The Anti-icing Materials International Laboratory (AIML) is an independent non-profit organization devoted to conducting tests on anti-icing materials used for ice and snow removal on aircraft. AIML combines the expertise of the world's leading aircraft manufacturers, aerospace engineering companies, and laboratories to develop and test new and innovative products. These tests include environmental compatibility testing, friction coefficient testing, and ice adhesion testing.

Ice adhesion values in anti-icing fluids

In order to develop effective anti-/deicing systems, it is important to understand the role of ice adhesion to surfaces. The key parameters that affect ice adhesion strength are fluid-surface interaction, water mobility, and the concentration of interfacial water. Moreover, these factors are influenced by the wettability of the tested surface. We evaluated the effect of MSP, PEG, and aqueous ice on ice adhesion values.

Ice adhesion strength was measured on filled and unfilled MSP/SBS composites. Ice adhesion values were lower for filled composites than for unfilled ones. This is due to the formation of a self-lubricating liquid layer at the ice-composite interface. Similarly, the strength of ice adhesion decreased with the concentration of PEG.

Ice adhesion on MSP/SBS composites filled with 50 vol% PEG-600 aqueous solution was lower than that of unfilled composites. However, ice adhesion strengthened with consecutive icing/deicing cycles.

Friction coefficient

When designing a surface that will resist ice, the designer must consider its friction coefficient. This coefficient is a measure of the drag a fluid exerts on an object when moving across it. It is a function of both shear and normal stresses.

Unlike static anti-icing surfaces, dynamic anti-icing surfaces have dynamic properties that enable chemical and physical state changes that facilitate ice-substrate interaction. These surfaces are capable of responding to external stimuli such as temperature, humidity, and motion. They are also promising for practical applications.

Several different approaches have been used to analyze friction processes on ice. The simplest is to compare the friction force between the two surfaces. In addition, plane-light microscopy of wear surfaces has been used to examine the friction processes. However, this method has a few limitations. Specifically, the ice hemispheres in a wear surface are often composed of coarse crystals. Therefore, it is difficult to use a high-resolution microscopic observation to assess the mechanisms underlying the ice-friction coefficient.

Results of the tests

There are several methods to test ice adhesion of modern anti-icing materials. This includes static ice testing, tensile testing, horizontal shear testing, and the nanoscratch test.

The nanoscratch test is a three step process, involving the application of micronano sized water droplets, the application of a force probe, and the detachment of the sample from the substrate. It is the most significant test for ice adhesion tests, as it provides the most standardized setting.

The horizontal shear test, or push test, is a popular method to measure the adhesiveness of a substrate. It does not require much setup, but is still a good test to have for your icing research.

A superhydrophobic coating applied to the surface of the substrate significantly decreases the icing process, as well as energy consumption. Depending on the operating mode, the coating will decrease energy consumption by up to 50%.

Environmental compatibility tests

A good place to start your search for the best anti-icing material is with the AFOMA (American Film and Fabric Association) website, which provides comprehensive information about the latest products and services in the field. In addition to standard test procedures, AFOMA offers tips and tricks for maximizing performance and avoiding common pitfalls. To make your life easier, it also features an online forum and email list for technical questions, news, and events. Whether you are an industry pro looking to improve your current operations or an early career professional in search of an opportunity, AFOMA is your one-stop shop for all things textiles.

Specifically, AFOMA's labs conducts environmental compatibility tests on a regular basis. The company also operates a state-of-the-art accredited laboratory, ensuring the highest quality of testing and customer service. This particular facility is equipped with the latest in measurement technology, including a temperature controlled room for advanced measurements and a high-performance spectrometer. It also houses a state-of-the-art research facility, including an extensive library of physics, chemistry, and materials science publications.

Aircraft materials

Anti-icing materials for aircraft are used to prevent ice from forming on the flight surface. Ice can interfere with engine operation, affect takeoff and landing, and increase drag. It can also create a stall and temporarily cause loss of control. Fortunately, today's deicing methods are effective and efficient.

Today, airplane manufacturers use anti-icing materials that have superhydrophobic surfaces. These coatings are applied as normal paint and have extraordinary water repellency. They can be used as passive or active anti-icing systems. Their efficiency depends on the circumstances.

SuperAiTM is a coated aluminum substrate that has a threc (ice adhesion strength) as low as 1.8 psi. This represents an 80% reduction in ice adhesion. In addition to its water repellency, SuperAiTM has little change in ice adhesion strength after immersion in jet fuel, Skydrol, and UV-Con.