Aerospace Anti-icing Systems

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue of Aerospace will explore the important and evolving field of aerospace anti-icing systems. As aviation technology continues to advance, the importance of sophisticated anti-icing technologies, especially those that align with sustainability goals, cannot be overstated. Ensuring the safety, efficiency, and environmental compatibility of aircraft, particularly under adverse weather conditions, is paramount. This issue aims to highlight the latest advancements, challenges, methodologies, and sustainability considerations in the development and application of anti-icing systems for the aerospace industry.

Ice on aircraft surfaces, such as the wings, propellers, and engine inlets, poses a significant threat to flight safety and environmental sustainability. Ice accumulation can lead to reduced control and lift, increased drag, and even complete engine failure, while traditional de-icing methods often involve environmentally harmful chemicals or excessive energy consumption. The aerospace community is thus compelled to innovate to improve the safety and environmental sustainability of anti-icing technologies.

The goal of this Special Issue is to disseminate current research and developments while fostering dialogue and collaboration within the aerospace engineering community with regard to sustainable practices. By examining the multifaceted aspects of anti-icing systems, from their design and materials to operational strategies and regulatory considerations, we aim to contribute to the enhancement of aeronautical safety, performance, and environmental stewardship in icy conditions.

This Special Issue will bring together pioneering experimental and simulation-based research, as well as case studies and reviews, from leading experts and emerging scholars in the field. Contributions will cover topics including the mechanisms of ice formation, the latest advancements in thermal, chemical, and mechanical anti-icing systems, and the integration of advanced materials and coatings, with a focus on energy efficiency and environmental impact. Additionally, this issue will explore the role of simulations and modeling in predicting and analyzing ice accretion, and the effectiveness of anti-icing measures under the new paradigm of sustainability.

Dr. Carlo Giovanni Ferro
Dr. Stefano Valvano
Prof. Paolo Maggiore
Guest Editors

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• anti-icing systems
• aviation safety
• ice accretion model
• advanced materials and coatings
• thermal anti-icing
• chemical anti-icing
• mechanical anti-icing
• electro-expulsive anti-icing
• ice formation mechanisms
• de-icing chemicals
• aircraft design
• operational strategies

Title: Analysis of Leading-Edge Anti-Icing Systems Under Hailstorm Conditions
Authors: Carlo Giovanni Ferro; Alessandro Cellini; Paolo Maggiore
Affiliation: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, Torino 10124 Italy
Abstract: This paper presents a comprehensive comparative study of the efficiency and resilience of leading-edge anti-icing systems on business jets when exposed to severe hailstorm conditions. The focus is on evaluating the performance and reliability of different anti-icing technologies currently employed in the aviation industry, particularly in the context of business jet operations. Using advanced simulation models and experimental data, the study aims to determine the effectiveness of these systems in mitigating the adverse effects of hail impact on the aerodynamic performance and safety of the aircraft. The research employs a multifaceted approach that integrates aerodynamic analysis, thermal dynamics, and material science. Key aspects of the study include the examination of thermal efficiency of the anti-icing systems, their response to varying sizes and densities of hailstones, and the impact on the leading-edge structural integrity and overall aircraft performance. The simulations are designed to replicate realistic hailstorm scenarios, considering factors such as hailstone velocity, size distribution, and impact angle. Results from the study reveal significant differences in the performance of various anti-icing systems under hailstorm conditions. The analysis highlights how specific system designs and materials contribute to the overall efficiency in preventing ice accumulation and in maintaining the structural and aerodynamic integrity of the leading edge. The study also assesses the operational limitations and the energy consumption of each system, providing valuable insights for optimizing anti-icing strategies in business jets. This research contributes to enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of business jets in adverse weather conditions. The findings offer crucial data for aircraft manufacturers and operators, aiding in the selection and development of more effective and resilient anti-icing systems. The outcomes are expected to influence future designs and regulations in the aviation industry, particularly concerning aircraft performance and safety in challenging environmental conditions.

Title: Impact of Hail Materials and Structures on the Mechanical Performance for Airworthiness
Authors: Yewei Liu; Lifen ZHANG; Zhenxia Liu; Xin Ge
Affiliation: Northwestern Polytechnical University
Abstract: Hail absorption test of aeroengine is one of the important components of airworthiness certification. The accurate test data is closely related to the density and mechanical properties of artificial hail used in airworthiness test. Through experimental research, this study explores the impact of distilled water, carbonated water and deionized water on the density and mechanical properties of artificial hail. The study addresses the significant differences between the density and mechanical properties of artificial hail and natural hail in existing studies. Based on this, a new method for producing airworthiness test hail is proposed. The results indicate that artificial hail samples with distilled water as the ice core and aerated water as the ice shell have densities ranging from 0.87cm3 to 0.89 cm3. Besides, the estimated average maximum compressive strength of samples is 6.538MPa, some samples as low as 3.681MPa. The mechanical properties of this artificial hail are more similar to those of natural hail. This method can more realistically simulate natural hail envi-ronments and can be used for the fine design of airworthiness certification criteria.