Synthesis and Development of Polyurethane Coatings Containing Fluorine Groups for Adhesive Applications

Accumulation of insect strikes on the leading edge of airplane wings is a more serious problem than one might realize. Depending on the magnitude, such accumulation changes the aerodynamic characteristics of the wing, causing a change from laminar to turbulent flow and resulting in decreased lift and increased drag. Overall, this also results in decreased fuel efficiency. Proposed solutions include elastic surfaces, coatings, soluble films, and fluid covers. Coatings offer an advantage over other strategies due to ease of application, potentially negligible weight penalty, reduced environmental concerns, better economics, and continual function throughout the flight profile.