Graphite-epoxy composite systems for Joule heating based de-icing

Ice accretion and build-up in low temperature environments are issues plaguing many different branches of the industry. Recently much work has been done into the development of active de-icing systems based on carbon materials and their composites. The following research presents an investigation into graphite/epoxy composite materials made by a simple casting method with cheap materials and scalability potential, intended for de-icing applications based on Joule heating. The examination has been carried out for samples with different amounts of carbon filler using IR thermal imaging to measure sample heating under the influence of electrical current under constant voltage. Measured electrical currents were then analyzed to examine changes in samples' electrical resistance dependent on temperature. Results provide a positive outlook for further experiments and development for this type of material toward its potential application.