Experimental study of superhydrophobic coating effects on dynamic ice accretion ice accretion process along S-1223 airfoil

Ice accretion on can be considered as a major threat for the operation of UAVs in the ice prone region, leading to loss of control and catastrophic failures. Active ice mitigation techniques are not suitable for UAV’s due to availability of limited power. Superhydrophobic coatings can be considered as a promising passive ice mitigation technique for UAVs featuring exceptional capability to repel water, low power consumption, and lightweight properties. The effect of superhydrophobic coating on the ice accretion behaviour of a UAV wing with high lift airfoil S1223 is studied. High speed images of the ice accretion and force measurements were done to study the dynamic ice accretion process. For airfoils with high camber the application of superhydrophobic coatings can lead to rough ice structures close to the leading edge and can lead to more aerodynamic penalties.