Hydrogen-Powered Integrated Power and Propulsion System (IPPS) Architecture for Sustainable Aviation: Leveraging Synergies Between Gas Turbine and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Abstract

Reducing aviation emissions requires innovative propulsion technologies. Hydrogen has been identified as a promising fuel to support the decarbonisation efforts in challenging industrial sectors, including aviation. Innovative architectures are needed to define advanced propulsion systems that can significantly enhance the overall efficiency of the system while eliminating CO2 and reducing NOx emissions. To address this challenge, a propulsion system that integrates direct hydrogen combustion with fuel cell technology is proposed to create a tightly coupled system capable of effectively addressing these issues. This paper presents the preliminary system architecture for a 1 MW+ Integrated Power and Propulsion System (IPPS) using hydrogen for a commuter application. It offers a methodology for defining an IPPS that leverages the synergies and benefits arising from the mechanical and thermodynamic coupling of a gas turbine (GT) with a solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system. A review of SOFC technology explores its advantages and challenges in the context of GT integration. Based on literature review of GT-SOFC integration concepts, the paper outlines key design constraints and system requirements for the IPPS. A functional analysis defines the primary functions of the IPPS, i.e. propulsion, power generation, and power management, while an organic analysis identifies the physical components needed to comply with these functions and optimise their interactions within the system. Together, these analyses provide a detailed overview of the system’s components and interfaces and define the IPPS baseline. The findings of this research will guide future progress toward decarbonised aviation solutions.