Large-Eddy Simulation of Droplet Impingement: Application to Clean and Laser-Scanned Ice Shapes

What is it about?

Ice buildup on airplane wings is a major aviation hazard, but current prediction models assume the growing ice is perfectly smooth. Using advanced computational simulations, we show how water droplets actually target existing roughness elements on the ice surface. This creates a self-feeding loop where these elements catch more water and grow rapidly, explaining exactly how dangerous, irregular ice shapes form in the real world.

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