Ceramic engine considerations for future aerospace propulsion

Amir S. Gohardani; Omid Gohardani

doi:10.1108/00022661211207884

Document Information:
Title:	Ceramic engine considerations for future aerospace propulsion
Author(s):	Amir S. Gohardani, (Department of Power and Propulsion, Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK), Omid Gohardani, (Department of Power and Propulsion, Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK)
Citation:	Amir S. Gohardani, Omid Gohardani, (2012) "Ceramic engine considerations for future aerospace propulsion", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 84 Iss: 2, pp.75 - 86
Keywords:	Aerospace industry, Aerospace technology, Aircraft engines, Ceramic engines, Ceramics and glass technology, Conceptual UAV, Distributed propulsion, Sustainable transportation, Unmanned air vehicle
Article type:	Conceptual paper
DOI:	10.1108/00022661211207884 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Acknowledgements:	Any opinions, findings and conclusions expressed in this paper are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cranfield University or any other organization(s) affiliated with the authors.
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.