Business Standard

NASA aims to reduce aircraft fuel use, emissions by 75 pc

Concepts were selected under the NASA's Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Programme in the US for a two-year study

NASA

Press Trust of India Washington
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) scientists have chosen five green technology concepts that have the potential to transform the aviation industry in the next decade by reducing aircraft fuel usage and emissions by 75 per cent.

The concepts were selected under the NASA's Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Programme in the US for a two-year study.

Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp


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 the 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.

Don't miss the most important news and views of the day. Get them on our Telegram channel

First Published: Aug 06 2016 | 2:07 PM IST

Explore News