Thermal Conductivity , Ice & Me (or You, too)

The composite materials are used as insulation in certain cases. Think
of fiberglass.

Next, look at the paint used for the a/c in question. The composites
are painted below the surface while the metal a/c have painted
surfaces.

Now, given the insulative qualities of the composites, and the surface
area with which to "absorb" energy (heat), the aluminum a/c will shed
ice much faster when placed in a heated hanger than will a composite.
Now if you place a fan in that heated hanger, the composite will de-ice
at a faster rate.

OTOH - at altitude and with air speed, I do not know if the composite
will ice faster than the aluminum, because the aluminum is not (well, I
wouldn't think it) as smooth as the composite. So water has something
to adhere to which will start the process (talking about rime). Because
of the smoothness of the wing, I don't know, and have no experience
with clear ice and its ability to stick to the wing. But because my
step-son is close to test flying his Vari-eze (I think that is the one
he is building), we may be able to find out by this time next year.

So you other composite drivers, how about practical experience?

Later,
Steve.T
PP ASEL/Instrument