Ceramic engine considerations for future aerospace propulsion

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to outline the potential usage of ceramic engines in combination with other technologies as a possible propulsion contender for future aerospace applications. Design/methodology/approach -The possibility of enabling novel propulsion systems in aerospace engineering is examined through a multilateral review study concerning ceramic engines and a proposed design approach. In view of the benefits and challenges of employing ceramic engines as possible candidates for the sustainable solutions of the future, a fundamental design proposal is presented for a conceptual generic unmanned air vehicle (GUAV). Findings -The findings of this article identify a number of useful scenarios for future ceramic engine applications and considerations. Research limitations/implications -It is imperative to emphasize that this conceptual article solely sheds light on a limited number of key ideas associated with ceramic engines and their possible applications. Thus, many new areas may emerge and impact the application of ceramic engines in light of more in-depth conceptual studies. Practical implications -Implications of ceramic engine utilization in aeronautical applications may result in enhanced performance characteristics and less operational costs. Further implications could possibly be extended to various naval/automotive applications and new configurations of transportation vehicles. Social implications -The paper aims to generate an interest amongst younger individuals and environmental aware enthusiasts to consider ceramic engines for transportation applications to a greater extent than before. Originality/value -The implementation of this particular conceptual design results in a synergistic ceramic engine combination with a hybrid airship design in novel aeronautical applications.

Multiple liquid impacts on polymeric matrix composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes

“…With the damage threshold velocities of the candidate materials v b D $ 130 720 m s À1 these materials could potentially be utilized on an unmanned air vehicle [44], with a cruise speed less than Mach 0.4. An example of one such aircraft is the generic unmanned air vehicle (GUAV), suggested by Gohardani and Gohardani [45].…”

Conventional and Advanced Composites in Aerospace Industry: Technologies Revisited

“…According to Gohardani and Gohardani [48], the problems of using conventional materials for engines, such as limitation of operating at high temperatures, combustion efficiency and the increasing of fuel consumption or hazardous emissions, can be eliminated or minimized by using the ceramic-based material for engine production. By using CMCs, the good behaviour of the product such as resistance against high temperatures, light weight and cost-effectiveness can be achieved [47].…”

Dynamic and static wettability of advanced materials used in aeronautical applications

“…For the majority of the specimens this feature may arise from the fact that a more uniform surface fi nish is obtained allowing the water to spread more freely on the surface. It is also Figure 10: Pre-and post-erosion photographs of splashing structures on specimens S 1 -S 8 .…”

“…The infl uence of CNTs on the hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature of a set of specimens was further considered by Gohardani and Hammond [5] based on empirical results. Following the introduction of novel propulsion cycles such as distributed technology [6,7] and their perspective applications [8], the present study describes a proposed methodology by Gohardani and Hammond [9] and exhibits numerical representations of the wettability of a number of CNT reinforced composites with potential usage within aeronautics. …”