Researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering develop a liquid hydrogen storage and delivery system aimed at revolutionizing aviation for zero-emission flights.
The system utilizes hydrogen not only as a clean fuel but also for thermal management in aircraft power systems, potentially reshaping the future of air travel.
Focused on a 100-passenger hybrid-electric aircraft, the integrated system combines hydrogen fuel cells and turbines to enhance efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
The research optimizes cryogenic tanks and subsystems to overcome hydrogen's low density, achieving a significant gravimetric index of 0.62 for improved fuel utilization.
Innovations also include using ultra-cold hydrogen for thermal management and a pump-free solution for regulating hydrogen flow, enhancing system efficiency and reliability.
Simulations demonstrate the system's capability to deliver hydrogen at rates up to 0.25 kilograms per second, meeting electrical demands during takeoff and emergencies.
The project aligns with NASA's Zero Emission Aviation program and aims to validate the design through real-world testing at FSU's Center for Advanced Power Systems.
The liquid hydrogen system presents a significant advancement in sustainable air travel, offering promise for cleaner aviation technologies and environmental standards.
Through strategic collaborations, this innovation paves the way towards zero-emission aviation, emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
This groundbreaking development signifies a transformative shift in air travel towards efficient, zero-emission propulsion systems using hydrogen, driving innovation in the aviation industry.