Session: Poster Session

Paper Number: 161909

Design of a Fuel Storage and Delivery System for Ammonia-Powered Turbofan Engines 

The quest for net-zero emissions has brought ammonia to the forefront as a feasible alternative fuel for aviation. Ammonia combusts without carbon emissions and has a higher energy density than hydrogen, although it is still lower than that of conventional Jet A fuel. The properties of ammonia offer significant potential for reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry while maintaining operational practicality. This paper outlines the design for an ammonia fuel storage and distribution system for turbofan engines, considering the main issues arising from its peculiar properties. The system includes cryogenic storage tanks designed for liquefied ammonia, sophisticated heat exchangers to regulate the vaporization process, and ammonia-compatible components that allow for the safe and efficient delivery of fuel. A critical emphasis is on the judicious selection of materials to minimize corrosion, the design of the system architecture to reduce the likelihood of leakage, and optimization of operations to meet divergent flight conditions. These are important considerations if stringent safety and performance standards in modern aviation are to be met. Preliminary simulations and experimental tests confirm the validity of the concept and its feasibility in operating efficiently under various conditions. Although the energy density of ammonia is not as high as Jet A, carbon-free combustion makes it an attractive alternative fuel. This study represents a major milestone toward realizing sustainable propulsion technologies for commercial aircraft as part of the overall goal of achieving a decarbonized aviation industry.

Presenting Author: Ethan Taylor University of Central Florida

Presenting Author Biography: Ethan Taylor:

Education:
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida (Jan. 2025 - Present)
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida (Jan. 2025 - Present)
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mechanical Engineering, University of Central Florida (Graduated: Dec. 2024)

Current Research:
- Developing ammonia-based fuel storage and delivery systems for turbofan engines, focusing on sustainable propulsion technologies.

Awards and Recognitions:
- UCF's Dean's List

Authors:

Ethan Taylor University of Central Florida
Marcel Otto University of Central Florida
Jayanta Kapat University of Central Florida
Erik Fernandez University of Central Florida
Mahmoud El Soeuidan University of Central Florida