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Scientific Impacts
FFLECS aims to advance numerical and experimental methods for multi-fuel combustion, generating reference knowledge for energy and mobility applications such as ammonia–hydrogen and hydrogen-piloted gas turbines. The project will also deliver progress in spray atomization modelling, electric-field-assisted combustion, nano-pulsed plasma control of flame stability, and early flame/emissions sensing, potentially enabling future breakthrough technologies. It will train and inspire a new generation of engineers and scientists—through PhD and postdoctoral involvement and updated academic programmes—placing sustainability and zero-carbon goals at the centre.
Economic and Technological Impacts
The EU aeronautics sector generates €220 billion and 4.5 million jobs, with aircraft demand expected to double in the next 20 years. FFLECS will reinforce Europe’s aerospace leadership by leveraging strong links between consortium partners and major engine manufacturers, as well as guidance from an industry Advisory Board. Experimental and computational results—especially the LEAF concept—will also benefit broader energy-conversion technologies, offering practical applications of MILD combustion beyond aviation.
SOCIETAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Beyond major health and environmental benefits from sharply reduced PM and NOx emissions, the ability to use hydrogen and SAFs makes these combustor solutions potentially transformative for future low-impact aircraft. Demonstrating fuel-flexible combustion will also prompt revisions of regulations and certification procedures for multi-fuel systems. FFLECS outcomes will help guide the necessary updates to EU aviation regulations, ensuring fair and consistent treatment of fossil fuels, drop-in SAFs, and hydrogen.