'Green' aviation concepts unveiled

15 May 2008 12:05pm

The eco-friendly look of future aviation has been unveiled at the Science Museum in London.

A series of "green" concept aircraft with light, new materials and advanced engine technologies went on display in an exhibition which will run for six months.

Looking at the likely impact of aviation on climate change, the free exhibition, sponsored by European aerospace company EADS, is entitled Does Flying Cost the Earth?

The display includes a futuristic blended-wing body aircraft model from Cambridge University.

Designed to reduce fuel burn, the plane is one big "flying wing", featuring a novel centre-body shape with leading edge carving. This design balances the aerodynamic forces without the need for a tail, and features streamlined wings which provide efficient lift distribution and low cruise drag.

The concept also features engines with high-capacity low-speed fans designed to minimise noise levels and improve fuel efficiency. Researchers are predicting that planes like this could cut carbon emissions by 25% and might become a reality by 2030.

Visitors to the exhibition will also see an innovative easyJet aeroplane model. Featuring open rotor engines, the plane is designed to reduce carbon emissions by 25%. Situated at the back of the aircraft, the open rotor engine is operated by fan blades which cut through the open air and use less fuel.

Other features include swept-forward wings which make the aircraft more aerodynamic. It would also be made from lighter materials such as carbon fibre composites. This style of aeroplane could be in use by 2016.

Other items on display include examples of lighter aircraft materials such as the titanium aluminised turbine blade from an aeroplane engine and an example of carbon fibre composite.

A section from an aeroplane engine designed to make planes more energy efficient is also on show.

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