Researchers develop solar-powered runway anti-icing system
Thursday, November 17, 2011 - 14:50
in Physics & Chemistry
(PhysOrg.com) -- Engineering researchers at the University of Arkansas are developing an anti-icing system that could make airport runways safer and less expensive to maintain during winter months. The approach uses a conventional photovoltaic system to supply energy to a conductive concrete slab that would function as a surface overlay on runways. Energy conducted throughout the slabs allows them to continually maintain temperatures above freezing and thus prevent accumulation of snow and ice.