Objective:

The objective of this project is to demonstrate the field application and environmental benefits of a non-toxic, biodegradable, low biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) alternative to the current aircraft deicers (i.e., propylene glycols) used extensively by the DoD. Qualification testing will be conducted by independent laboratories prior to the field demonstration to verify that the new fluid is computable for use on aircraft. The field demonstration will reveal the operational performance of the deicing fluid and quantify its environmental benefits. Environmental monitoring will be conducted, and computer-based modeling of the runoff water quality will be employed to allow further analysis, including predictions of environmental impact during a variety of weather conditions and side-by-side comparisons with other deicing fluid formulations.

Technology Description:

The low BOD fluid contains a combination of non-toxic, biodegradable, water soluble, organic freezing point depressants and surfactants to meet all deicing fluid performance requirements and provide a tailorable biodegradation rate. By allowing a slow, complete degradation of the ingredients, the fluid will not dangerously deplete dissolved oxygen levels in receiving waters. In addition, the fluid's ingredients have reduced aquatic toxicities and are lower in cost as compared to current propylene glycol-based fluid formulations.

Expected Benefits:

The expected benefits to DoD from validating and demonstrating low BOD deicing fluids include: (1) introduction of a low toxicity, low BOD alternative to current military deicing fluids; and (2) elimination of the need to capture, contain, and treat deicing fluid runoff using expensive and operationally disruptive centralized deicing facilities. In addition to the cost savings from avoidance of the need for treatment, one of the formulation ingredients may soon be available from a less expensive feedstock derived from renewable resources, lowering the cost of the product. If all DoD operations switched to the low BOD fluid, savings could reach more than $3 million per year. The use of the low BOD fluid also could reduce the risk of Notices of Violation for non-compliance with existing storm water discharge permits.
(Anticipated Project Completion - 2006)

Principal Investigator:
Ms. Mary Wyderski
Aeronautical Systems Center (ASC/ENVV)
1801 Tenth Street, Suite 2
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7626
Telephone: (937) 656-6178
Fax: (937) 656-4948
E-mail: mary.wyderski@wpafb.af.mil