During aircraft operation, gas turbine engines are continuously exposed to erosive media that damage engine components. BlackGold is a nanocoating material and application process that, when applied to gas turbine aircraft engines, can significantly reduce erosion of compressor airfoils—leading to reduced material loss as well as maintaining engine performance and enhancing overall fuel efficiency during service. MDS Coating Technologies Corp. teamed with scientists and engineers at the National Energy Technology Laboratory and Delta Air Lines to perform critical tests required for FAA certification needed to deploy the protective coating on commercial aircraft. Receiving a 2013 R&D 100 Award for being a technologically significant product in the marketplace, this FAA-approved nanocoating has the potential to save the U.S. commercial aviation industry up to 100 million gallons of fuel annually and garner cost savings greater than $300 million per year.

Positive Impact

EERE-funded technology has the potential to save millions of gallons of aviation fuel annually.

Locations

Oregon, Pennsylvania

Partners

National Energy Technology Laboratory, MDS Coating Technologies Corp., Delta Air Lines

EERE Investment

$467,371 

Clean Energy Sector

Energy-saving homes, buildings, and manufacturing

The Advanced Manufacturing Office partners with industry, small business, universities, and other stakeholders to identify and invest in emerging technologies with the potential to create high-quality domestic manufacturing jobs and enhance the global competitiveness of the United States.

The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) success stories highlight the positive impact of its work with businesses, industry partners, universities, research labs, and other entities.