Work

Evaluation of the Operational, Economic, and Environmental Benefits of Adopting Blue Economy in the Change of Aircraft Engine Washing Process: A Case Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT The aviation industry has a significant impact on the environment, accounting for 13% of global fossil fuel consumption and 2% of annual CO 2 emissions. One of the factors that increase this consumption is engine degradation due to the accumulation of dirt on compressor blades. To mitigate this effect and restore efficiency, compressor washing is essential, but it requires high water consumption. This study analyzes the operational, economic, and environmental benefits of optimizing this process, based on the Blue Economy. Fuel efficiency was assessed using the Fuel/RTM indicator, financial viability using ROI, and environmental impacts using the MIF index. The results indicate a 1.8% gain in fuel efficiency, annual savings of $179,000, a 6.9% reduction in environmental impact, and a 50% drop in water use. The findings demonstrate that sustainable maintenance practices generate economic and environmental gains, contributing to the conservation of water resources in aviation.

Source: Engineering Reports

DOI: 10.1002/eng2.70226

Authors: Flavio Luiz Rodrigues, Geraldo Cardoso Oliveira Neto, Henrricco Nieves Pujol Tucci, Luiz Fernando Rodrigues Pinto, Francesco Facchini

Institutions: Universidade Federal do ABC, Universidade Nove de Julho, Polytechnic University of Bari

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Aircraft Design and Technologies

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,270