While the obsession with “Climate Change” and CO2 is actually destructive. a hydrogen-powered aircraft could be an improvement over current models IF today’s constraints could be overcome. There are still too many accidents and fatalities due to engine failure; a hydrogen fuel cell driving an electric motor would be more reliable.
- Most electric aircraft motors have a hollow shaft so they can be stacked, providing separate redundant power to a common propellor shaft.
- Add a small battery to buffer between the fuel cell and the motors and you could provide 20-30 minutes of emergency power to land safely should the fuel cell crap out.
- Metal hydrides can store hydrogen at normal temperatures and pressures at higher densities than liquid hydrogen. Current hydrides are too heavy for aircraft; research is underway to try to identify a hydride light enough for flight.
- Production of the hydrogen required for commercial flight will be difficult without cheaper electricity; electrolysis of water is preferable to extracting hydrogen from fossil fuels. Small modular new-generation nuclear plants are the only likely sources for this power; they’ll also be needed to handle the apparently irresistible onslaught of EVs we’re facing The idea that renewables (solar and wind) could meet this need is laughable; they’re woefully inadequate for today’s needs.
The history of aviation is filled with advances provided by determined R&D; for example, going from the Liberty engine to the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 in only 20 years. We shouldn’t let the foolishness of the unscientific eco-warriors blind us to the potential advantages afforded by the relative simplicity and reliability of electrical equipment.