EU - ReSiSTant - Large Riblet Surface with Super Hardnesss, Mechanical and Temperature Resistance by Nano Functionalization

“ReSiSTant” targets the optimization of two industrial pilot lines by using micro- and nanostructured surfaces for drag reduction. The objectives are to implement new developed surfaces into 1) Aircraft Turbofan Engines and 2) Industrial Compressors. Positive effects by usage of such surface could give benefits in terms of efficiency, CO2 reduction and noise emission and further on a positive economical and ecological impact. To enable the usage of such micro- and nanostructures, special development on the surface material for better durability in rough conditions has do be done. It is planned to do nano-functionalization, like implementing nanostructures and nanoparticles for better resistance in rough conditions. Riblets basically consist of tiny streamwise grooved surfaces which reduce the drag in the turbulent boundary layer of up to 8%. Surface modifications such as riblets are the most promising technology that could be applied without additional external energy or additional amount of air. An additional key outcome of the proposed project is a detailed database of experimental data for cases with and without riblets, which can be leveraged to validate tools for forced response and aero-acoustic predictions of an aircraft engine and its low-pressure turbine components. At industrial gas compressors the riblet structures reduce the aerodynamic shear stress losses. An efficiency increase of 1% of a single stage system shall be achieved. During the project a riblet coating that includes a corrosion protection should be developed. Beside the resistant hardness of the coating also a self-cleaning mechanism by usage of nanostructures should be implemented. The new surface manufacturing processes shall be completed in less than 5 hours and a higher process reliability and predictability of the performance results is sought. As a whole, the success of the project will therefore contribute to significantly increasing the level of maturity for these pilot lines to TRL7.