Evaluate the potential of applying a nano paint on SLAF Y - 12 (II) aircraft as a nanotechnology modification

Abstract

This study is mainly focused on enhancing the durability of the existing external paint coated on Y-12(II) aircraft by using a ? Flight Shield ? nanopaint. According to the literature, this nanopaint is a crystal clear and it has the capability of bonding to the existing aircraft paint. This new layer protects the existing paint and provides a smooth, gloss by chemically and also it gives self-cleaning property. In the methodology, the 25/26 Ardox cleaning solvent has to be used in order to clean outer skin of the Y-12(II) aircraft. Cracks of the skin have to be identified and required remedies have to be performed. The pre-treatment primer and epoxy primer hardener have to be mixed in 1:1 ratio according to the manual. The mixture has to be applied on the surface. Let the primer to dry about 18 hours. Gallon kit (white, black, blue paints, thinner for poly paint and epoxy thinner) has to be applied next and painting has to be done in a colour chamber under 25 oC ? 30 oC temperature. Flight Shield nano coating has to be applied as a final coating followed by drying for about 24 hours. The additional cost incurred for the nanopaint is $ 930. Even though the initial cost is high, the nanopaint protects the existing paint by 5 years. In addition to that, from 1 l volume of nanopaint, it can cover 900 ft2 and approximately 6.5 l need to cover the whole Y-12(II) aircraft which has 5658 ft2. Due to the nanopaint smoothness will increase which leads to reduce the drag hence this leads to increase the performance of the Y-12(II) aircraft. The dynamic contact angles were 161o and 162o for the surface which was coated by nanopaint. This proves the super hydrophobicity of the surface, which leads for water droplets to easily slide off. Also, as this nanopaint is durable for 5 years, it reduces the cost for painting the aircraft every year, which leads for a financial benefit ultimately to SLAF.