A new kind of cruise missile engine, called a scramjet, has been tested to achieve Mach 6.5 speeds in simulated hypersonic conditions, outperforming traditional ramjets. The engine is being developed for use in the HyFly joint DARPA/ONR Flight Demo program, aiming to launch missiles at speeds up to Mach 6 and ranges of 600 nautical miles.
UC Davis' entry, Yosemite, is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that doubles fuel economy and reduces tailpipe emissions below California's strictest SULEV standards. The FutureTruck project, a joint government-industry initiative, aims to raise the environmental performance of popular SUVs while keeping their amenities.
Researchers at UCR's CE-CERT are developing a way to convert wet waste, such as sewage sludge and grass clippings, into synthetic diesel fuel and electricity. The process has the potential to produce up to 26 barrels of fuel and 34 megawatt-hours of electricity per day.
Researchers at Penn State Energy Institute have developed a new process for removing organic sulfur from hydrocarbon fuels using low-temperature and pressure methods. The SARS process selectively adsorbs sulfur on metal species without affecting aromatic compounds.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a novel X-ray camera capable of capturing microsecond images of events hidden to optical cameras. The camera successfully imaged shock waves generated by high-pressure fuel sprays, providing new insights into the distribution and atomization of diesel fuel.
Researchers at ONR and DARPA are developing OSCAR, an oceanic fuel cell that harnesses organic matter in sea sediments to generate electricity. The early versions of OSCAR have been generating about 50 milliwatts per square meter, sufficient power for small calculators.
The University of Pennsylvania team has developed a fuel cell that can run directly on liquid diesel, sidestepping the need to reform fuels into hydrogen. This breakthrough could enable wider adoption of fuel cells in transportation and other applications, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional energy sources.
Virginia Tech researchers are developing methodology to relate membrane performance to intrinsic polymer properties of microphase separation, water absorption, and proton conductivity. The goal is to produce PEMS that perform well in a wide range of fuel cell environments.
Researchers at INEEL have developed an energy-efficient process to produce alkylate, a high-octane gasoline blend with low environmental pollutants. The new method uses a solid acid catalyst and supercritical fluid solvent to regenerate the deactivated catalyst, increasing its lifespan by 20 times.
Researchers at Penn State investigated alternative diesel fuel DME, which burns smokeless and produces fewer particulates. The team found that DME can mix completely with diesel fuel but its viscosity may be a key property in developing these fuels.
Researchers are exploring government policies to ensure a stable energy supply, including alternative sources like hydrogen, fuel cells, and alkaline fuel cells. Energy R&D spending is linked to energy-related patents, highlighting the need for increased investment in emerging energy problems.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have demonstrated improved fuel cell materials and systems, enabling operation at higher temperatures. The team will receive $2 million in grants to develop next-generation polymer electrolyte membranes and membrane electrode assemblies.
Case Western Reserve University has been awarded a $750,000 grant from the Ohio Eminent Scholars Program to support high-energy density fuel cell research. The university will also establish the Case Institute for Fuel Cells, where the appointed professor will lead technology development and education.
Researchers found that sediment on the sea floor has a different electrical potential than surrounding salt water, allowing for sustainable fuel cell power. This innovation could significantly reduce costs of ocean monitoring and enable continuous operation of self-sustaining equipment.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have applied aerodynamic concepts from aircraft to tractor-trailers, reducing drag by up to 50% and improving directional control, traction, and braking. The Circulation Control system uses compressed air to create lift and reduce rolling resistance, with potential fuel savings of up to 12%.
Researchers found that lard and choice white grease produce less nitrogen oxides, ash, and carbon monoxide when burned compared to No. 6 fuel oil. The study suggests that these alternatives could be a cleaner and more sustainable option for the food processing industry.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing new proton-exchange membrane (PEM) materials with improved behavior, including the ability to operate at higher temperatures. These advancements aim to reduce polymer properties' impact on fuel cell applications.
The stern flap design has reduced the power required to propel Spruance and Ticonderoga-class destroyers, resulting in annual fuel savings of 3,600-4,700 barrels. The Navy plans to retrofit these ships with stern flaps, as well as Arleigh Burke and Oliver Hazard Perry classes, leading to an estimated $380 million in life cycle savings.
Computer models at UW-Madison use genetic algorithms to optimize engine performance, increasing fuel efficiency while reducing pollution. The results demonstrate significant improvements in nitric oxide and soot emissions, as well as a 15% reduction in fuel consumption.
Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a prototype of a miniature fuel cell with a volume of five cubic millimeters. The new cell uses hydrogen as a fuel and is produced using high-tech micro-fabrication techniques, enabling low-cost production.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing new proton exchange membrane (PEM) materials for fuel cells, which can operate at higher temperatures and improve efficiency. The materials being developed have demonstrated better results than existing materials in terms of heat tolerance.
Researchers at Pennsylvania State University have developed coal-derived jet fuels that can withstand higher temperatures without forming engine-clogging deposits. This breakthrough could enable faster, safer flight for commercial jet aircraft.
Researchers found that biodiesel fuel reduced carbon monoxide and particulate matter emissions by 12-14% and 25%, respectively. The lower oxygen content of biodiesel also helped reduce hydrocarbon emissions.
A semi-fuel cell hybrid has been developed to propel unmanned undersea vehicles, providing a cheap and safe energy source with four times the energy of current batteries. The technology also features a long shelf life and uses seawater as the battery fluid.
Researchers have discovered a way to harness nature's own tool, photosynthesis, to produce hydrogen gas from sunlight and water, offering a promising alternative fuel source.
Researchers develop a new fuel that combines thorium and uranium to increase reactor runtime, potentially saving the industry $1 billion annually. The fuel could also generate less waste than traditional all-uranium fuel, while improving resistance to nuclear proliferation.
Koehler's project focuses on the adsorption of trace atmospheric gases on soot under simulated conditions. Her research aims to understand how soot derived from jet fuel affects the chemical balance of the atmosphere, with potential implications for sulfur dioxide conversion to sulfuric acid.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered that dimethyl ether (DME) produced from coal-derived syngas has lower carbon monoxide emissions compared to propane or butane. DME also exhibits similar or lower nitric oxide emissions in most cases, making it a viable alternative fuel.
A simple cooling system can significantly reduce fuel vapour formation in aircraft tanks, minimizing the risk of explosion. The Polarjet system cools fuel to -1°C or below, reducing hydrocarbon vapours and oxygen levels, making planes safer without expensive modifications.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have developed a new method to convert used french fry oil into biodiesel, producing a higher grade fuel with less waste and at a lower cost. The process eliminates the need for acid neutralization and wastewater, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Robert W. Pitz is using advanced laser diagnostics to study gasoline burning characteristics in direct injection engines, aiming to reduce pollutants while maintaining efficiency. His research may lead to the development of next-generation engines with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.
Researchers have developed a new fuel formulation that produces 40-50 percent fewer unburned hydrocarbons and 20 percent less carbon monoxide compared to gasoline. The P-series fuel blend can power flexible fuel cars, offering an alternative to traditional gasoline.
Researchers develop new catalyst that significantly enhances methanol-air fuel cells' efficiency, enabling a more practical and sustainable power source. The breakthrough catalyst, composed of platinum, ruthenium, osmium, and iridium, presents a major improvement over existing platinum-ruthenium alloys.
Researchers at Savannah River Technology Center found metal-munching bacteria thriving in sterile storage pond environments, threatening long-term nuclear fuel rod integrity. This ill-timed discovery comes as a global downturn in nuclear reprocessing leads to extended storage periods.
Virginia Tech students will design and develop a hybrid vehicle using the new fuel cell, which produces zero emissions. The team aims to make effective use of the fuel cell in combination with a battery pack.
Scientists are developing a solution to cool advanced supersonic jets by using jet fuel as a coolant, which can also circulate through the wings and fuselage. The research aims to address the problem of fuel degradation and carbon deposition that could cause maintenance issues with coal-derived jet fuels.
The H2Fuel Bus features a unique hybrid power system that uses hydrogen fuel stored in metal hydrides, producing near-zero emissions. The bus will provide valuable experience and raise awareness about hydrogen as an alternative fuel for the future.
A University of Kansas researcher has successfully demonstrated a method to convert grass, stalks, and farm byproducts into sugar for use as a primary component in fuel for diesel engines. The alternative fuel mixture is estimated to cost less than traditional diesel fuel and has already been tested in conventional diesel engines.
A prototype propulsion system powered by a kitchen microwave has the potential to reduce propellant needed by up to 50%, enabling longer satellite lifespans and cost savings. The microwave-powered thruster operates more efficiently than chemical systems and is safer, as it only produces thrust when microwaves are active.
Researchers at Penn State have developed advanced computer techniques to improve the efficiency of nuclear and fossil fuel power plants. These new techniques can help extend the lifetime of fuel, increase operating efficiency, and save money, potentially leading to lower costs for consumers.