A polymer layer that protects livery paintwork and could reduce the need for washing aircraft is being employed by Etihad Airways and Virgin Blue.
Developed by Permagard Aviation in France, the company says the polymer "Bio Coatings" layer "repels a wide range of contaminants, ranging from runway grime to bugs and oil stains". Permagard also claims the polymer layer can reduce fuel consumption because it mitigates against parasitic drag. As well as Etihad and Virgin Blue other airlines are testing the coatings system.
"The core benefit of this programme is the ability to clean and preserve the aircraft's exterior for an extended period, reducing significantly the frequency of washing, deferring the need to repaint planes and cutting the time they spend on the ground," says Permagard president Luc d'Argence.
According to Permagard, Etihad estimates that in 2010 it will reduce its water consumption for livery washing by 75%, or about 10 million litres (2.6 million US gal), and its use of cleaning fluids by 96% - from 50,000 litres to 2,000 litres.
Source: Flight International
