De-icing 횟수에 따른 폴리우레탄 탑코트의 손상 조사

Abstract

De-icing/anti-icing fluid is essential for removing ice formation on aircraft. It chemically removes ice using organic solvents, which can cause damage to the topcoat surface in the process. In this study, glycol-based deicing/anti-icing fluid was used to remove ice, and the resulting damage to the topcoat was examined. USB microscope was used to observe the formation and growth of ice, while a confocal microscope was employed to observe the surface morphology after treatment with de-icing/anti-icing fluid. Additionally, coating thickness measurements and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis were conducted to investigate the physical and chemical changes on the surface. The repeated application of de-icing/anti-icing fluid showed a reduction in the ice formation rate and an increase in the growth rate. Damage during the pressurization process and surface damage to the polyurethane topcoat caused by ethylene glycol were observed during the de-icing process. Although no chemical changes were detected, the analysis revealed that surface uniformity decreased, with physical damage such as cracks and undulations forming on the surface. It was confirmed that while de-icing/anti-icing fluid is effective in removing ice, it also causes surface damage.