Investigation of Non-traditional Non-skid Technologies for the U.S. Navy

Current deployment of technologically advanced aircraft such as the MV-22 Osprey and the future deployment of the Joint Strike Fighter F-35B are pushing the envelope of current non-skid technologies.  With these new aircrafts a cast of new performance requirements are emerging, forcing the U.S. Navy to rethink its position on non-skid technology and how it will be used for flight deck service. Thermal spray coatings, mechanical surface alterations, alternative coating chemistries, overlays, and removable or replaceable decking are among some of the technologies being investigated.  Traditional non-skid materials have had a constant struggle to provide sufficient service life and maintain readiness under current conditions of high traffic, wire wear and impact.   However, future demands for Short Take-off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) and Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft will further complicate the issue adding requirements for high temperature resistance and extreme durability.  This paper will focus on the investigation of alternative materials that will improve the current performance state of traditional non-skid as well as discuss the status of current ship board demonstrations of non-traditional non-skid materials.