A comprehensive review of ice accretion and high-efficiency anti/de-icing technologies for rotorcraft

Ice accretion significantly impairs the aerodynamic performance for rotorcraft. As unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications broaden, the demand for comprehensive investigation on UAV icing continues to grow. Rotor-wing UAVs are more susceptible to icing weather conditions, resulting in reduced lift, increased drag, and blade vibrations. The development of light-weight high-efficiency anti/de-icing systems for rotor-wing UAVs remains a challenge, which profoundly affects the all-weather flight requirements. Due to the small size and rotational characteristics, the mature anti/de-icing techniques for manned aircraft and fixed-wing UAVs cannot be directly utilized for rotor-wing UAVs. This review summarizes recent advancements in ice accretion and anti/de-icing methodologies, along with their application perspectives for rotorcraft. The icing mechanism and the influencing factors of rotor icing are more complex due to the centrifugal forces. The characteristics of rotor icing provide valuable insights for the development of anti/de-icing systems in rotorcraft. Three research approaches on rotor icing are outlined to enhance the development of ice protection system (IPS). The anti-icing strategies for rotorcraft include anti-icing liquid and icephobic coatings. The deicing strategies involve pneumatic, ultrasonic and piezoelectric deicing methods. Additionally, the anti/de-icing strategies incorporate electrothermal systems and photothermal coatings. The strategy of hybrid anti-icing and deicing systems is one of the primary research directions, as it not only heightens deicing efficiency but also reduces power consumption. This review discusses the benefits and limitations of these ice mitigation techniques and provides our outlook on the future development of anti/de-icing system for rotorcraft.