StellarJet's Game-Changing Hydrogen Storage and EDF Propulsion Innovations
Key Ideas
- StellarJet introduces a solid-state hydrogen storage device with impressive weight and energy density, surpassing liquid hydrogen systems.
- The new EDF propulsion system delivers significant power and thrust in a lightweight and compact design, ideal for zero-emission aviation.
- Both technologies will be integrated into the StellarJet Demonstrator, a hydrogen-powered test aircraft scheduled for its maiden flight in 2025.
StellarJet, a Texas-based company specializing in hydrogen-powered aviation, has unveiled two groundbreaking technologies set to revolutionize zero-emission air travel. The first innovation is a solid-state hydrogen storage device utilizing metal hydride technology, offering a remarkable 23% weight hydrogen storage density and an energy density of 6.6 kWh/kg. This system operates safely at pressures between 20-350 bar and temperatures from -60°C to +80°C, allowing for quick refueling without the risks of evaporation loss. CEO Alexey Popov emphasized the scalability and safety of this storage solution, marking it as a pivotal breakthrough for the aviation industry. The second advancement is the EDF propulsion unit, providing 132 kW power and 1700 Newtons of thrust with a lightweight design of just 14.7 kg and a compact duct diameter of 375 mm. These technologies are designed for the StellarJet Demonstrator, a hydrogen-powered test aircraft slated for its inaugural flight in 2025. While these innovations address safety and cost challenges associated with liquid hydrogen systems, the company faces hurdles in scaling production and establishing hydrogen infrastructure. Some concerns have been raised regarding the complexity of certification processes impacting commercialization, indicating potential challenges on the path to widespread adoption of these cutting-edge technologies.