Technical Challenges and Scientific Approach for a Sustainable Energy Efficient Future

Abstract

The energy landscape is rapidly changing and the availability of fossil fuels in abundance at affordable prices in the future cannot be assured. It is time now to focus attention to produce sustainable alternate fuels, further improve the energy conversion process, and develop new and more efficient energy conversion devices. Environmental constraints and geo physical changes restrict the selection and utilization of fuels for the future. Continuous availability of feed stock for alternate fuels at affordable prices and to convert those to fuels with required properties, as well as to control the combustion process, poses challenges. Alternate fuels for propulsion, in particular for aero-propulsion are required to meet varying and often contradicting performance parameters. These issues are elaborated and technical solutions are attempted in this chapter. Economics will play a major role in the successful use of alternate fuels. Future energy conversion devices (engines and turbines) will operate on higher pressures and temperatures and will offer challenges in the production of new materials and coatings.