Sustainable aviation is essential to the global goal of achieving carbon-neutrality by 2050. In this course, we will start by exploring the fundamentals of aircraft propulsion systems and their environmental impacts. We will subsequently move on to explore potential solutions, with a focus on three aspects: (1) alternative fuels; (2) hydrogen technologies; and (3) electrified aircraft. In Part 1, we will examine aviation fuel standards, physical and chemical properties, emissions, the “fit-for-purpose” approach for designing and selecting alternative fuels, their influence on aircraft design, and the economics and production methods of alternative fuels. In Part 2, we will delve into hydrogen production and storage, water electrolysis, hydrogen storage, ammonia, combustion chemistry, hydrogen combustor, hydrogen fuel cell, and hydrogen aircraft engine. In Part 3, we will look at electrochemistry for batteries, cell designs, the challenges and barriers, and the potential impacts of electrified aircraft. Upon completion of this course, students will be equipped with the latest knowledge of technical solutions and possibilities of modern engineering to make aviation more sustainable. Moreover, the course will also encourage critical and creative thinking about the future of aviation and how you can play a role. Additionally, students will gain exposure to European sustainability efforts through industrial visits to Airbus Space & Defense and Saft Batteries. They will also be able to explore cultural sites across France, allowing them to truly experience the French art de vivre.
For more information, please contact Professor Li Qiao at lqiao@purdue.edu
**An essay is required up to 1,000 words describing your passion for sustainability, how it connects to aviation, and why you are interested in this course.
Students must upload a resume (1-2 pages) including academics, project work, teamwork/leadership, etc.
Proposed Itinerary: (still under development and subject to change due to availability)
May 17-Depart the USA
May 18-Arrive in Paris, hotel check-in, Welcome Dinner
May 19-Tour of Safran, visit to Universite Polytechnique, Museum visit
May 20-9am-12am class time, afternoon tour of the Louvre
May 21-Class time, tours in the Paris area
May 22-Class time, tours in Paris such as Chateau de Fontainebleau
May 23-Saturday-French Pastry Class, free evening
May 24-Sunday-Free day in Paris
May 25-Morning class time, guided visit to Versailles
May 26-Morning class time, Orsay Museum, evening cruise on the Seine
May 27-Train to Toulouse, France, check into new hotel
May 28-29- Visits in and around Toulouse like Airbus Defense and Space, Place duCapitole, Saint Sernin, Jacobins, ISAE-SUPAERO
May 30- TBD
May 31-Students free to leave