A Holistic Solution to Icing by Acoustic Waves: De‐Icing, Active Anti‐Icing, Sensing with Piezoelectric Crystals, and Synergy with Thin Film Passive Anti‐Icing Solutions. (31st January 2023) - del Moral, Jaime
Abstract: Icing has become a hot topic both in academia and in the industry given its implications in transport, wind turbines, photovoltaics, and telecommunications. Recently proposed de‐icing solutions involving the propagation of acoustic waves (AWs) at suitable substrates may open the path for a sustainable alternative to standard de‐icing or anti‐icing procedures. Herein, the fundamental interactions are unraveled that contribute to the de‐icing and/or hinder the icing on AW‐activated substrates. The response toward icing of a reliable model system consisting of a piezoelectric plate activated by extended electrodes is characterized at a laboratory scale and in an icing wind tunnel under realistic conditions. Experiments show that surface modification with anti‐icing functionalities provides a synergistic response when activated with AWs. A thoughtful analysis of the resonance frequency dependence on experimental variables such as temperature, ice formation, or wind velocity demonstrates the application of AW devices for real‐time monitoring of icing processes. Abstract : A piezoelectric plate actuated by electrodes constitutes a reliable de‐icing, anti‐icing and low ice‐adhesion solution based on acoustic waves that is compatible with passive anti‐icing thin films. Icing wind tests demonstrate its robustness and advantages for real operating conditions. The dual character as de‐icing actuator and ice‐accretion sensor paves the way for the development of a smart anti‐icing technology.