The SAGE2 project was conceived with the goal of developing a novel counter-rotating open-rotor demonstrator. Implicit in its design was a system capable of de-icing the rotors. The most effective method of de-icing was one which uses electrical resistance to heat the rotor blades; however, in order to deploy such a de-icing technique, it was imperative that the electrical systems supplying power are capable of withstanding the associated harsh environmental conditions.

The ADONIS project advanced the SAGE2 project by evaluating the various insulating materials under consideration for use. It exposed the materials to aging conditions consistent with their use: both immersion and spray were studied in order to elucidate the effects each type of environment has, and how it affects the long term aging behaviour of the material.

RESCOLL is a specialist in nonmetallic materials testing, and will use its expertise in the characterisation and aging of the candidate materials to provide the SAGE2 project with the best possible material.

The ADONIS project was undertaken in six steps. The first was concerned with the day to day management of the project. The second undertook an exhaustive study of the existing literature on the subject of insulating materials and their interface behaviour in terms of electrical properties. This study also established clear methods for the assessment of the materials behaviour, ensuring that the results of this project represent the most recent and informative data possible on the subject.

The third step established a clear planning methodology and timeline for the testing of the materials. The materials themselves were tested in steps four and five. The results of these aging tests were used to develop a set of recommendations in step six as to the best materials to be used in the SAGE2 system.