a protective hybrid composite for a rotor blade is based on the use of tape cast ceramic layers densified by pre - ceramic polymer infiltration methods and laminated together with polymer matrix composite prepregs , with or without an embedded metallic mesh , to form a conforming helicopter blade cladding that is laminated to the blade surface for added erosion protection . the hybrid composite is fabricated to net shape and laminated to the blade using either an adhesive or a polymer composite prepreg inner layer . installation is accomplished by a standard composite fabrication method of vacuum bagging the blade while the system is laminated to its surface . repair methods based on removal of ceramic tiles is facilitated by incorporation of a metallic mesh element laminated beneath the ceramic tiles that can be used to heat the tile and decrease its adhesion strength .