U of T researchers say lightweight sensor could reduce need for toxic aircraft de-icing fluid

University of Toronto researchers published a paper in Advanced Materials describing a lightweight triboelectric sensor that detects ice forming, melting and detaching on surfaces in real time.

Researchers at the University of Toronto’s Durable Repellent Engineered Advanced Materials (DREAM) Laboratory report a lightweight triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) sensor that detects ice forming, melting and detaching on surfaces in real time. The work is described in a paper published in Advanced Materials and is led by Kevin Golovin. The sensor is composed of a metal electrode and a thin dielectric plastic coating and produces distinct electrical signals for different ice events. The team notes the coating is simple to fabricate and can be applied to complex shapes such as wings, turbine blades and small drones. Key findings: - The TENG sensor uses two thin layers (metal electrode plus dielectric coating) and registers charge when materials contact and separate, producing sharp electrical signals. - Different signal patterns correspond to ice formation, melting and detachment, and the system can also detect cracking or detaching ice. - The coating forms a continuous layer over a surface, offering broader coverage than point-based sensors. - Based on signal and temperature, researchers report the ability to distinguish precipitation types such as rime ice and freezing rain. - The sensor is extremely lightweight and responds in under a millisecond in drone tests; researchers also describe potential for the electrode to act as an electrothermal heating element. Summary: The researchers say the sensor could speed detection of icing on aircraft and drones and potentially reduce reliance on conventional de-icing fluid, which is noted to be toxic to wildlife. Further work planned includes outdoor drone tests, integrating the sensing and heating functions, and adapting the coating for different applications. Undetermined at this time.