Material or any composite that have least friction between its sirface and air , which decrease s the boundary layer and also delay boundary layer separation..
When it comes to reducing friction and minimizing the boundary layer on aircraft surfaces, researchers and engineers have explored various materials and surface treatments. While achieving zero friction is not possible due to fundamental physical principles, there are materials and coatings that can significantly reduce friction and delay boundary layer separation. Some of these include:
Superhydrophobic Coatings: Superhydrophobic coatings have micro- or nanostructures that repel water, reducing the contact area and friction. These coatings can minimize the accumulation of water droplets and delay the onset of turbulent flow.
Riblet Surfaces: Riblet surfaces consist of small, elongated ridges aligned parallel to the flow direction. These microstructures create a favorable flow pattern that reduces skin friction and delays boundary layer separation.
Laminar Flow Control (LFC) Systems: LFC systems use suction or blowing of air through small holes on the aircraft's surface to maintain a smooth and attached boundary layer. By preventing boundary layer separation, LFC systems reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency.
Polymers and Composites: Some polymers and composite materials possess low surface energy properties, reducing adhesion and friction with the surrounding air. Examples include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and certain silicone-based coatings.
Surface Texture Optimization: Surface textures, such as dimples, can be designed to minimize friction and promote smooth flow. Computational simulations and optimization techniques are used to determine the ideal texture configuration for specific flow conditions.
Active Flow Control: Active flow control techniques involve the use of actuators to manipulate the airflow near the surface actively. By adjusting the flow characteristics, such as momentum or vorticity, near the boundary layer, the onset of turbulence and separation can be delayed.
It's important to note that the selection of materials and surface treatments depends on specific requirements, such as the operating conditions, aircraft type, and desired performance improvements. Extensive testing, including wind tunnel experiments and computational simulations, is typically conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and durability of these materials and coatings before their implementation on aircraft surfaces.
While significant advancements have been made in reducing friction and delaying boundary layer separation, achieving substantial gains in aerodynamic efficiency is a complex and ongoing area of research and development in aerospace engineering.