Integrated flexible film for drag reduction and anti-icing based on superhydrophobic surfaces

Drag reduction and anti-icing are critical challenges in aircraft operations. Traditional anti-icing films are often inefficient. To meet the complex environmental demands of modern aviation, a dual-functional film combining drag reduction and anti-icing properties was developed. Using laser direct writing lithography, micro-riblet structures were fabricated on flexible PET films, which were then combined with a nanoparticle coating to create a superhydrophobic surface, achieving long-lasting drag reduction and anti-icing performance. The film exhibits a water contact angle of 156°, delays ice formation by up to 201 s, and reduces ice adhesion strength to 49.8 kPa. Wind tunnel tests show a maximum drag reduction rate of 6.6 % under high Reynolds numbers. The film also demonstrates excellent mechanical durability, chemical stability, and self-cleaning performance. This integrated solution enhances resource efficiency and provides a novel approach for aviation technology optimization.