IMPLEMENTÁCIA PALIVOVÝCH ČLÁNKOV V ALTERNATÍVNEJ POHONNEJ SÚSTAVE LETÚNOV

Abstract

This paper is focused on the research of the implementation of fuel cells in an alternative aircraft propulsion system. Regarding the fact that the world’s population is growing and fossil fuel reserves are gradually depleting, the aviation industry considers fuel cells as a substitute for traditional aircraft propulsion systems. The first chapter deals with the generation of thrust in aircraft propulsion units, where the principle of thrust generation is defined as well as the factors affecting it. This chapter further compares engine thrust generation with jet propulsion and propeller propulsion and includes division of aircraft propulsion units, too. The second chapter begins with the history of the origin, development, analysis, and principle of operation of fuel cells. The chapter also includes information about the hydrogen fuel cell, description of hydrogen production and its fundamental information, and the use of hydrogen or fuel cells in aviation. The possibilities of using fuel cells in the creation of alternative aircraft propulsion, where the analysis of the issue is defined from the point of view of several companies, are discussed in the third chapter. The fourth chapter is devoted to the socio-economic problem of an alternative aircraft propulsion system based on fuel cells. Comparison of the overall effectiveness of two propulsion units (namely turboprop engine and fuel cell combined with electric motor) resulting in the fuel cell being favourable due to its greater efficiency is included as well. The chapter defines the application of fuel cells not only in aircraft propulsion system but emphasises their other advantageous functions. The fourth chapter is concluded with the description of the role of hydrogen and fuel cells from an environmental point of view as well as economic challenges in commercialisation. In conclusion, although the costs of the implementation of fuel cells are significantly higher than combustion engine costs, the overall costs should be comparable after a longer period of fuel cell operation due to their higher efficiency and thus lower fuel consumption.