The SOUNDofICE project’s ultimate goal is to replace costly and environmentally harmful de-icing methods with a pioneering strategy based on the surface engineering of MHz Acoustic Waves for smart and sustainable removal of ice, encompassing the autonomous detection and energy-efficient removal of accreted ice on any material and geometry. For the first time, both detection and de-icing will share the same operating principle. The research program covers modelling of surface wave atom excitation of ice aggregates, integration of acoustic transducers on large areas and the development of surface engineering solutions to stack micron-size interdigitated electrodes together with different layers providing efficient wave propagation, anti-icing capacity, and aging resistance. This de-icing strategy surpasses existing methods in performance, multifunctionality and capacity of deposition on industrially relevant substrates as validated with proof of concept devices suited for the aeronautic and wind power industries. The project’s strongly interdisciplinary team from five academic centres and three SMEs with first-hand experience in de-icing will be in charge of the future transfer of this technology to key EU players in aeronautics and renewable energy. The project will provide a unique opportunity for young academic leaders and SMEs from six different countries to strengthen the EU position in a field of high fundamental and technological impact.

TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS will lead WP3, ‘Modelling and simulation of de-icing by (s)AW’ and will be responsible for the design and manufacturing of composite coatings with icephobic properties suitable for a ground breaking de-icing system based on MHz Acoustic Waves. It will support the de-icing process and improvement of its efficiency with simulations in micro and nano scale and apply and test the developed solutions in cooperation with industrial partners. It will also support project partners in building upon the experience gained in previously conducted ‘icing’ projects and testing hybrid samples in different conditions. It will carry out testing of the wetting properties of passive and coupling layers, of the UV and thermal exposure of multi-(s)AW devices in ambient conditions. Technology Partners will also perform characterization of the layers’ and coatings’ physico-chemical properties, microstructure and functional properties.