William Tahil

As last time

---

Presentation

Electrohydrodynamic propulsion

Electrohydrodynamics (EHD) came to attention in 2018 when MIT flew an aircraft propelled by ionic wind. When high voltage is applied between two electrodes, the ion discharge between the electrodes entrains air molecules creating airflow. The airflow is then directed to generate lift and thrust. Researchers have obtained thrust to power ratios of 7–100N per kW from ionic wind thrusters, comparable to light helicopters. Ionic wind propulsion could power the ultimate electric aircraft using electricity directly to create thrust. Its advantages for an eVTOL would include silent operation and elimination of rotors, with fully distributed propulsion.