Thermal spray coatings for protection of polymeric composite aircraft components

Thermal spray coatings have increasing application in the protection of aircraft engine and structures. Coatings for wear or erosion resistance, thermal protection, or environmental degradation have all been applied, thus providing the potential to extend the use of polymeric composites to replace metals in many new components. This paper reviews the applicable thermal spray technologies, presents several methods, and provides data on the performance of such coatings. Thermal spray coatings on several glass, Kevlar{reg_sign}, and carbon fiber reinforced polymeric components will be highlighted. The paper presents the case for thermal spray coatings use in demanding aircraft or other aerospace applications.