Purpose:

The objective of this project is to demonstrate the applicability of a completely biodegradable and cost-effective alternative to the current aircraft deicers (propylene glycols) used throughout the Department of Defense (DoD). The demonstration will provide the basis for development of a manufacturing specification to produce the deicer in large quantities and of an acceptable testing protocol. The test protocol will ensure that necessary data is collected to facilitate implementation of this deicer on DoD aircraft.

Description:

In this demonstration, a sorbitol-based product diluted in an aqueous solution with less toxic additives than are currently used in aircraft deicers will be employed. Assessments will involve determining the additive package required to meet the industry-accepted standards (SAE/AMS 1424 C) for deicers. In addition, the physical and chemical properties, materials compatibility, aquatic toxicity, and biodegradability will be validated. Demonstrations will be performed under cold weather conditions.

Benefits:

The expected DoD benefits from validating and demonstrating sorbitol-deicing fluids include: 1) the introduction of a low toxicity, more rapidly degraded, less corrosive alternative to Type I or Type II military deicing fluids; 2) significant operating cost savings; and 3) reduced generation of hazardous wastes. Lowering the toxicty of the deicer will reduce the impact of the deicer on the environment. Using a cost savings of $3 per gallon, projected DoD cost savings would exceed one million dollars per year depending on the extent to which the technology is applied. In addition to operating cost savings, DoD will prevent the discharge of millions of pounds of hazardous waste each year with the new deicer, thereby reducing cleanup costs. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2005)

Contact:

Ms. Mary Wyderski
ASC/ENVV
1801 Tenth Street, Suite 2
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433
Telephone: (937) 656-6178
Fax: (937) 656-4948
E-mail: mary.wyderski@wpafb.af.mil