What is the purpose of using fungicidal dope when doping aircraft fabric?

The purpose of using fungicidal dope when doping aircraft fabric is fundamentally to prevent micro-biological deterioration of the fabric. This type of dope contains additives that inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and fungi, which can thrive on organic materials and imperil the structural integrity and safety of the aircraft.

When aircraft fabric is exposed to moisture or humidity, there's a significant risk of microbial growth that can weaken the fabric, reduce its durability, and potentially compromise the overall safety of the aircraft. Applying a fungicidal dope creates a protective barrier that not only preserves the fabric but also extends its service life, ensuring that it remains robust in various environmental conditions.

In contrast, while enhancing paint adhesion, improving finish gloss, and increasing drying time are important aspects of the doping process, these factors do not specifically address the need to protect the fabric from biological deterioration. Thus, they are secondary concerns when it comes to the primary functional aspect of fungicidal dope.