On the Design and Sustainability of Commuter Aircraft with Electrified Propulsion Systems

Philipp Strathoff, Clemens Zumegen, Eike Stumpf, Christian Klumpp, Peter Jeschke, Konrad L. Warner, Ronny Gelleschus, Thilo Bocklisch, Benjamin W. Portner, Leonard Moser, Mirko Hornung

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

The overarching goal in the GNOSIS project is to holistically evaluate the potential through aircraft propulsion system electrification at the two temporal assessment horizons in 2025 and 2050. In this context, one of the evaluation parameters is the CO2 equivalent emissions associated with aircraft operations. In this study, the aforementioned emissions are calculated for two electrified aircraft configurations with 19 seats passenger capacity, determined in previous project phases. Afterwards, the emissions are compared to those of the aircraft operated either with conventional kerosene or sustainable aviation fuels from different production pathways. In order to achieve the set goal, two main steps are carried out. First, the MICADO framework for aircraft design and evaluation is extended with new models for the required propulsion system components. Second, based on a literature review, the CO2 equivalent well-to-wheel emissions associated with production and combustion per kilogram of fuel are determined for kerosene, grid electricity and three sustainable aviation fuels. Results show that the partial turboelectric propulsion system selected for 2025 increases the overall system complexity significantly without providing noteworthy advantages over a conventionally powered reference configuration. At the same time, the great potential of SAF becomes apparent if an efficient production path is chosen. According to the results for the year 2050, the use of fossil kerosene for 19-seat passenger aircraft should be dispensed with. The kerosene alternatives investigated here, i.e. combusting 100% SAF in gas turbines or using liquid hydrogen in fuel cells, reduce the equivalent CO2 emissions associated with the production and combustion of the fuels significantly. Savings range between 45 to 80% depending on the main source of energy.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAIAA AVIATION 2022 Forum
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA
ISBN (Print)9781624106354
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022
Externally publishedYes
EventAIAA AVIATION 2022 Forum - Chicago, United States
Duration: 27 Jun 20221 Jul 2022

Publication series

NameAIAA AVIATION 2022 Forum

Conference

ConferenceAIAA AVIATION 2022 Forum
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityChicago
Period27/06/221/07/22

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