Visitors to Farnborough last week were given a first look at the capabilities of an innovative non-stick aircraft coating by Pittsburgh-headquartered PPG - a global supplier of paints, coatings and specialty materials.

The unique coating, which is still development, helps to eliminate ice build-up on airplanes for increased fuel efficiency, enhanced safety and less required maintenance.

By helping ice, insects and other substances to safely slide off an airplane’s wings and flight-control surfaces, PPG’s coating helps to prevent build-up that can create drag on the aircraft. This, in turn, helps to maintain a smooth flow of air over airplane wings, which studies by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have shown can reduce fuel consumption by as much as 6 percent.

PPG’s coating also helps to decrease an aircraft's energy use for ice removal by 75 to 85 percent compared to a standard finish by reducing the need to use electrical systems and hot air to prevent icing on the wings. Additionally, because the coating helps to minimize bug residue on the airplane’s surface, less post-flight aircraft cleaning is needed, which shortens turnaround intervals on the tarmac.

PPG holds four patents related to the coating’s technology and is currently collaborating with key commercial airframe and engine manufacturers to test the coating’s efficiency and durability. The product may be launched commercially as soon as 2017.

“PPG has a long history of developing innovative coatings, and collaborating closely with customers to solve some of their biggest challenges,” said Mark Cancilla, PPG global director, aerospace coatings. “We believe this coatings technology will help customers increase fuel efficiency and manage hazards such as ice build on aircraft components.”

Learn more at: www.ppgaerospace.com