Airbus’ icephobic coatings to reduce time for de-icing planes

Can you briefly explain how the ice-resistant technology works?

Airbus is currently developing and testing improved ice-resistant technologies to support current anti-icing systems. This “new” ice-resistant technology is based on the design and manufacture of special coatings that can be applied to the external surfaces of an aircraft in order to stop or slow down the formation of ice or snow while an aircraft is on ground or in-flight using less energy than solutions in place today.

How were the planes tested?

The so-called “icephobic” coatings are not yet used on commercial aircraft. Airbus is testing them in laboratory situations; in icing wind tunnel tests, and in-flight tests to assess both their durability and their performance. There is still a long way to go before all tests will be complete and certification achieved.

Will aircraft with this technology in place have any drawbacks concerning in-service life?

We expect that aircraft equipped with this technology should have the same – or even an increased – in-service life as compared with current aircraft.

Is this a technology that can be applied to existing planes?

Yes, “icephobic” coatings could also be applied to existing aircraft. We call this process “retro-fitting”, which means applying a newer technology to an existing product. However, the main target for the new “icephobic” coatings will be the next-generation of Airbus products.

Will this technology only be useful in icing conditions?

As our current understanding of the technology is, the same coatings should also allow for a reduction in the accumulation of dirt and of other contaminants onto external aircraft surfaces. This will in turn enable a reduction in drag and therefore fuel consumption – it will also keep the aircraft “cleaner and shiny” for a longer time.

Is this solution cost effective compared to traditional de-icing methods?

We do not expect “icephobic” coatings to totally replace traditional ice protection systems, but instead support them; making them more efficient, reducing the energy required to use them as previously mentioned. Our goal of course being a more eco-friendly air-transportation without compromising on safety.