Lighter, Faster Coatings for Aircrafts

As fuel prices continue to climb, airlines are scrambling to think of new, cost-saving measures. Easyjet, one of Europe's largest airlines, thinks the answer may lie in lightweight composite materials. Starting today, the company is running a trial of what they call a "revolutionary nano-technology coating."

Traditional paint coverings on Easyjet's aircrafts add an estimated 80 kg to each plane, while the new coating adds a mere 4 oz to the overall weight. Easyjet hopes that the lighter coating will reduce drag, while increasingly fuel-efficiency and saving money. The concept is not new, but is being refined thanks to advances in nanotechnology.

Before applying the nano-coating, the planes are first given a "polarizing wash," which is said to open the pores for treatment. The wash electrically charges using a positive polarity, allowing the polymer to bond to the existing surface. A shiny layer reduces debris build-up on the edge of the wings and other areas, resulting in less friction and drag on the plane's surface.

Last year, 40% of Easyjet's costs were fuel-related. With the new polymer coating, they hope to save up to 2%. At this time, the company is not saying how much it will cost to cost the eight trial planes, but says that "even a 1% saving on our fuel bill and 1% less in our carbon emissions is worth doing."

Do you think Easyjet's 2% goal is feasible?

Source: BBC News