The concepts were selected under NASA’s Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Programme in the US for a two-year study.
The topics, including three specifically targeted at electrically-propelled aircrafts, are the use of alternative fuel cells; three-dimensional (3D) printing to increase electric motor output; lithium-air batteries for energy storage; new mechanisms for changing the shape of an aircraft wing in flight; and a lightweight material called aerogel in the design and development of aircraft antenna.
These five concepts, in addition to three of the six selected last year, address NASA’s green aviation initiatives to cut fuel use by half, lower harmful emissions by 75 per cent, and significantly reduce aircraft noise, scientists said.
“There definitely was an emphasis in our selections on bringing forward activities that addressed a NASA aeronautics goal to reduce the carbon footprint of aviation during the 21st century,” said programme manager Doug Rohn.
PTI