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Active TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 5)
This University Leadership Initiative (ULI) project focuses on the long-term objective of developing a highly efficient flight propulsion and power system together with an innovative aerodynamic structural design for wide adoption of carbonless aviation fuels such as liquid ammonia. This design will help to facilitate electrification and energy transition of the aviation industry towards zero-carbon by 2050. To overcome specific technical challenges and fulfill educational research missions related to the ULI project goal, major technology advancement will be sought in the following areas:
1. A hybrid, integrated electric propulsion, power, and thermal management system (IPPTS) will be constructed to achieve both high power density and fuel-to-electric efficiency (70%) for zero emissions aircraft (ZEA). IPPTS will reduce weight while increasing specific energy density to an unprecedented level of 3 kW/kg thanks to a unique, patent-pending design allowing direct integration of carbonless solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) into the turbogenerator architecture.
2. Establish numerical modeling design of an emission free, 150-passenger commercial aircraft as well as optimize such design with experimental verification to be cost effective for a technology transition to industry partners.
3. Develop computational and experimental analysis protocol to quantitatively evaluate aviation emissions from the proposed propulsion technology’s effect on the climate and environment and effectiveness of emission control technologies
4. Devise methodologies for risk assessment and safety measure implementation to mitigate the safety concerns associated with the new fuels’ perception
5. Create an educational platform and workforce development opportunities for engaging students of various skillsets within the project and prospective aerospace students. All while promoting the concept to the public
The advancement of this project will enable practical and more efficient use of carbonless aviation fuels in a hybrid system with integrated SOFC-Combustor and turbo generator (SOFCC-TG) technologies. Additional advancement in operational approaches of that technology to meet economic and environmental demands of airlines, the public, and other stakeholders for a zero-emissions future are anticipated.
Second, research conducted by the multi-institutional, transdisciplinary team will foster coordinated, synergistic advancement in different technologies that are needed for a comprehensive electrified aircraft system. Development can pave the foundation for further system optimization in future NASA projects focusing on hurdles identified during the process.
Third, with major aircraft manufacturer Boeing on the team, the impact of replacing the CFM Leap 1B engines on a Boeing 737 Max with the IPPTS can be readily channeled to partners and stakeholders with referenced view of possible adoption of the technology into the field.
Fourth, the cost and sensitivity of passenger/cargo mile modeling tools developed in combination with the technology advancements will provide insight to transition partners and stakeholders and will identify strategic investment opportunities.
Fifth, high fidelity modeling and numerical analysis will allow detailed tracking of contrail formation and emission profile to better understand and justify the environmental and performance benefits of using carbonless aviation fuels.
Sixth, the educational and working experiences brought by the project to 100+ students across multiple universities will help prepare the next generation of engineers and researchers for a clean and sustainable aviation industry.
And last, risk analysis and safety protocols established for carbonless fuels will not only improve public perception of electrified zero-emission aircraft but also help development and modification of FAA regulations and certification standards necessary for such fuels’ entrance into the energy market.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.