In Search of Alternatives: Aviation Fuel for a Durable Economy

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the urgent need for alternative aviation fuels as the industry faces increasing reliance on fossil fuels. With approximately 300-500 airlines continuously airborne in Europe alone, the demand for jet fuel (A1) is staggering, estimated at 6000 liters per second globally. Synthetic fuels and hydrogen are proposed as potential alternatives, but challenges remain regarding production rates and economic feasibility. Innovations in aircraft materials, such as ceramics and carbon fiber, alongside new propulsion designs, are critical for improving efficiency and reducing dependency on traditional liquid fuels.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aviation fuel types, specifically Jet A1 and synthetic fuels.
  • Knowledge of aircraft propulsion systems and their reliance on liquid fuels.
  • Familiarity with alternative energy sources, particularly hydrogen and biofuels.
  • Awareness of materials science related to aircraft design, including ceramics and composites.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advancements in synthetic fuel production technologies.
  • Explore the feasibility of hydrogen as an aviation fuel, including storage and production methods.
  • Investigate the impact of new materials, such as ceramics and carbon fiber, on aircraft efficiency.
  • Examine the economic implications of transitioning to alternative fuels in the aviation industry.
USEFUL FOR

Aviation engineers, environmental scientists, policymakers, and anyone involved in the development of sustainable aviation technologies will benefit from this discussion.

  • #31
physicsCU said:
Propellor driven is a bad idea. You cannot go as high, meaning that your max altitude, where it is best for fuel economy, is in areas of high turbulence. Jet engines can fly higher than any propellor. It is the inherent nature of the two, no matter the fuel being used.

It also represents a step backward in aviation technology, and you will see the downfall of the industry if you try to use props again.
Or you might see an industry-wide adoption of ground-effect planes.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
16K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
37K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 82 ·
3
Replies
82
Views
28K
  • · Replies 37 ·
2
Replies
37
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
6K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 66 ·
3
Replies
66
Views
20K