College - Author 1
College of Science and Mathematics
Department - Author 1
Physics Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BA in Physics
Date
4-2024
Primary Advisor
Jon Fernsler, College of Science and Mathematics, Physics Department
Abstract/Summary
With a dangerously and rapidly changing climate [1], people globally are desperate to reduce CO2 emissions and protect our environment as evidenced by global initiatives such as the United Nations’ Paris Agreement [2]. Traditional fossil fuel extraction and combustion was responsible for 74% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2019, which contributes to climate change, ocean acidification, extreme weather events, sea level rise, pollution, and health issues which contributed to 350,000 premature deaths in the U.S. in 2018 [3]. This motivates the search for alternative, more sustainable fuel production. There have been many new, more sustainable solutions to traditional fossil fuel applications, such as electric powered vehicles sales of which increased by 55% internationally from 2021 to 2022 [4]. However, it is difficult to provide enough energy density for vehicles like jets or airplanes with a traditional battery. These heavy objects need very high energy density to oppose the force of gravity, get lift, and fly. With less energy density, batteries are unable to power a plane for as long as a comparable amount of combustible fuel [5]. This motives companies like Boeing, the aerospace company which provided the initial funding for this project, to look into combustible fuel production that is more sustainable.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/physsp/245