Technical and economic assessment of cryogenic fuels for future aviation

Abstract

The aviation industry faces the challenge of reducing its environmental impact while maintaining economic competitiveness. This study presents an extensive review of cryogenic fuels, specifically Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and hydrogen/liquified hydrogen (LH₂), along with their renewable counterparts, as potential alternatives to conventional fuels and Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs). The study examines fuel properties, comparing performance metrics and environmental consequences with a focus on payload capacity, operational range, and aircraft design, including necessary fuel tank specifications for cryogenic fuels. Additionally, this paper delves into the production, transportation, and refueling processes for LNG, hydrogen, and their renewable equivalents, exploring the challenges, opportunities, and infrastructure requirements associated with each fuel type. The emissions generated by these fuels are thoroughly assessed to highlight their potential in mitigating the aviation industry's contribution to climate change, considering their entire life cycle. Moreover, the study also investigates the economic implications of adopting cryogenic and renewable fuels, encompassing production costs, Direct Operating Costs (DOC) and the impact on flight ticket prices. This comprehensive study aims to provide valuable insights into the feasibility and long-term viability of integrating these innovative fuel sources into the aviation sector, guiding the industry toward a more sustainable future.