Nanotechnologies and the Aerospace and Defence Sector
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The aerospace and defence industry is a large consumer of material technologies; it is always demanding stronger, tougher, lighter and longer-lasting components that meet stringent qualifications. Performance is often the main factor, with cost lower on the list of priorities.
Nanotechnology could see application in: aircraft and vehicle structures; engines and engine components; interior equipment and furnishings; tyres; braking systems; paints and coatings; armour systems; electronics (including sensor networks); weapon systems; and fuel. Drivers, especially for commercial aircraft, include lighter and stronger aircraft, improved safety, reduced emissions, noise reduction, increased payloads and capacity, improved engine and fuel efficiency (increased range) and lower operating and manufacturing costs.
Surfaces and Coatings
A number of aerospace and defence companies and agencies are beginning to use, or investigate the use of, nanotechnology-based coatings to add special characteristics to aircraft frames and interior and engine parts and component surfaces, which can include properties such as: self-cleaning and antimicrobial; improved hardness; wear and corrosion resistance; and improved thermal performance and flame retardancy.
Structural Materials
Nanotechnologies can enhance the strength and lightness offered by materials like plastic-, metal- and ceramic-matrix composites used for aerospace airframes and engine components that need to withstand high temperatures and mechanical stresses. So far, however, widespread improvement of existing material technologies remains at research/early commercialisation phase. Carbon nano-tubes in epoxy composites have been shown to improve the overall toughness, fatigue resistance, and durability of a composite airframe.
Are nano aerospace products already on the market?
Nanotechnologies are currently mainly used in niche aerospace (especially commercial aircraft) and defence application as it takes many years before new material technologies become established within the supply chain. Examples include:
• Advanced high-temperature, wear-resistant nanocoatings and thin films (e.g. nanostructured metals, diamond-like carbon, zirconium oxide) are beginning to see use in aerospace applications, such as for gas turbine blades.
• Propellants (various metal nanoparticles)
• Armour systems (nanoceramics)
Managing risks and uncertainties
All new components and systems entering the aerospace and defence market are required to meet a series of stringent EU safety standards and regulations (flight certification for new structural materials and components) aiming to achieve an appropriate level of safety and structural integrity.
Conclusions
Nanotechnologies are likely to have an impact on the aerospace and defence sector, particularly for applications that demand high performance and where cost is not a critical factor. Filtration of nanotechnology into the commercial sector will be slow because of industry culture. Nevertheless, the growing use of polymer composites in aircraft manufacture (Boeing and Airbus) could help drive the use of nanocomposite materials.
Below is a SWOT analysis summarising Government understanding, from discussion with stakeholders, of the major strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing the UK in this sector. Please help to steer future actions and shape the UK business environment by answering the questions on the right hand side of the page.
Strengths
Strong UK aerospace and defence industry, especially in the design and production of aircraft equipment, engines, systems and frames. The UK is a major exporter of defence systems. Good UK research base and materials production expertise geared toward aerospace and defence applications (e.g. QinetiQ, Rolls Royce, BAE Systems).
Weaknesses
Aerospace industry conservatism, stringent testing and qualification procedures and long-product cycles may prohibit introduction of widespread nanotechnologies solutions. Structural use of nanotechnologies requires significant testing and accreditation to enter and gain confidence of the market. End-user awareness and confidence and immature recycling infrastructure may also prevent wider adoption of nanotechnologies in aerospace applications. Therefore, the areas of characterisation tools and measurement standards needs immediate attentions.
Opportunities
Industry need to continue to reduce costs and meet environmental and safety legislation will drive the need for high-performance material technologies, such as nanotechnologies-based paints and coatings, metal matrix and ceramic matrix nanocomposites. Defence applications are good proving ground for advanced material technologies. Good opportunity for UK to take a lead in sustainable aviation developments.
Threats
Overseas head start in some aspects of aerospace/defence-based nanotechnologies, especially in USA (e.g. Boeing and NASA).
What’s your view? Please answer a short survey on nanotechnology in this sector using the form on the right, or leave a public comment using the form below.
