In the Propulsion and Clean Energy Research Group at TMU, we conduct experimental studies on thermo/aerodynamics phenomena, with a special emphasis on fundamental combustion and hybrid-electric propulsion.
Approximately 85% of global energy is supplied by the combustion of fossil fuels and renewables. However, with the International Energy Agency forecasting a 25% increase in global energy demand until 2040, and a corresponding increase in demand for oil and natural gas of 11% and 43%, respectively, there is an urgent need to reduce emissions from energy and transportation systems. Our research aims to generate a fundamental understanding of soot formation and reduce particulate matter emissions from combustion systems. Better engineering can lead to significant reductions in soot emissions, with the potential to prevent an estimated 1.7 million premature deaths annually and accrue a net annual climate benefit of $190 million and an annual health benefit of $5 billion by 2030.
To reduce aviation's dependence on fossil fuels, we focus on the study of hybrid-electric propulsion systems. However, there is currently a lack of benchmark data on the performance and feasibility of these systems. Therefore, our group collaborates with stakeholders from both academia and industry to improve the sustainability of the energy and transportation sectors.
