The aviation industry relies on a wide range of chemicals to keep aircraft running efficiently and safely. From keeping engines in top condition to ensuring cabins are clean and free from bacteria, each chemical plays a vital role. Some are used for maintenance, while others improve performance or protect against environmental damage.
Understanding the different types of chemicals involved helps highlight the rigorous standards required to keep flights operating smoothly. Each substance must meet strict safety regulations, ensuring it does not compromise the integrity of an aircraft or output an excessive amount of environmentally damaging byproducts.
With that in mind, here are some of the most commonly used chemicals in the sector and what they do.
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Key Takeaways
Aviation relies on a range of chemicals for maintenance, performance, and safety, all of which must meet strict regulations
Fuel is the most used chemical, with annual consumption reaching up to 99 billion gallons
Key chemical categories include antifreeze, deicers, biocides, degreasers, solvents, and leak detectors
While some aviation chemicals impact the environment, strict regulations help minimise their effects, and eco-friendly alternatives are emerging
What Chemicals Are Used in the Aviation Industry?
The number one chemical is fuel, with an estimated yearly use of between 92 and 99 billion gallons. It’s no wonder, considering that this is the cornerstone of keeping planes flying across the world.
Aside from this, the chemicals used in this industry fall into these categories:
- Biocides and bug kits – these types of chemicals are designed to prevent aircrafts from becoming infested with harmful organisms such as fungi. They include insecticides, fungicides, and disinfectants.
- Antifreeze and deicers – chemicals like ethylene glycol and propylene glycol prevent ice from forming on aircrafts during cold weather. Some types of salts are also used to deice runways before take off.
- Contact cleaners – these remove dirt from different surfaces in the aeroplane, such as the dashboard and chair upholstery. Contact cleaners can include cleaning agents like ammonia solutions and hydrogen peroxide.
- Degreasers – as the name suggests, degreasing chemicals are designed to remove both internal and external oil and grease from aircrafts.
- Leak detectors – certain types of chemicals are sprayed on pipe joints, tube connections, tanks, and systems that are under pressure. When there’s a leak, they form white foams or bubbles. Leak detectors commonly contain ethylene glycol as the active ingredient.
- Solvents and alcohol – these chemicals are used to dissolve paints and other types of coatings. They can also be used as cleaning agents.
Below are examples of the common chemicals found in this industry, as well as a rundown of their functions:
1. Propylene glycol
Propylene glycol (sometimes referred to as polypropylene glycol) has the molecular formula C3H8O2. It’s commonly used in non-toxic antifreeze solutions to prevent ice accretion on aircrafts before take off.
2. Ethylene glycol
Ethylene glycol (C₂H₆O₂) is also commonly used as an antifreeze for aircraft. It’s a colourless, odourless, and flammable liquid with a sweet taste – though it should not be injected as this can make it break down into chemicals that are toxic to the central nervous system. In addition to antifreeze, ethylene glycol is used in hydraulic fluids.
3. Calcium magnesium acetate
Calcium magnesium acetate is an environmentally-benign chemical that’s used as an alternative deicer to traditional rock salt, or sodium chloride. It has the chemical formula CaMg2(CH3COO)6.
4. Sodium acetate
Sodium acetate (C2H3NaO2) is another type of chemical that’s commonly used to deice runways. It melts snow and ice faster than some other deicers, helping to prevent accidents during takeoff and landing.
5. Sodium formate
Sodium formate has the chemical formula HCOONa. A white powder at room temperature, it’s the sodium salt of formic acid. It is mainly used as a runway deicer.
6. Petroleum-based solvents
Petroleum-based solvents are mixtures of hydrocarbons that are used to dissolve non-polar substances. Examples of these types of solvents include aliphatic naphtha, kerosene, methyl chloroform, and methyl ethyl ketone.
Petroleum-based solvents are commonly used to remove grease and oil from aircraft surfaces. They can also dissolve paints and other coatings.
Global Demand for Chemicals in the Aviation Industry
Demand for chemicals like contact cleaners, antifreeze, and petroleum-based solvents is constantly growing in the aerospace business.
With an increasing demand for flights around the world, and an inevitable increase in maintenance, repair, and overhaul following suit, the global market is expected to hit a value over £8.5 million by the end of 2034.
Are Chemicals Used in the Aviation Industry Bad for the Environment?
As more and more flights happen across the world, so does the impact of its chemical usage on the environment.
Many traditional options contain substances that contribute to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste disposal challenges. These include petroleum-based solvents and toxic cleaning agents.
However, the use of these substances is now well-regulated and certain protocols must be followed to minimise their impact on the environment.
Other chemicals, such as deicing agents, are generally not harmful to the environment. Some degrade easily while others are inherently benign. As always, it’s important to read the corresponding chemical safety data sheet or material safety data sheet (MSDS) beforehand.
Conclusion
Every chemical used in aviation has a specific purpose, contributing to the safety, efficiency, and longevity of aircraft. From essential lubricants that keep engines running smoothly to advanced fire suppression agents that protect passengers, each substance is carefully selected to meet industry standards. The strict regulations governing these products ensure they perform reliably under demanding conditions.
