[feedquote='E-Cat World','http://www.e-catworld.com/2015/06/30/20-years-before-lenr-aircraft-rossi/']Many people following the LENR story are often convinced that it is the energy source of the future, and at some point will be ubiquitous. Given what we know of the E-Cat, I think that’s a fair assumption to make — but in making prediction and projections, we have to also take into account the […][/feedquote]
20+ Years Before LENR Aircraft: Rossi
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If there is even a modest fraction (say 1/10) of the energy density claimed for Rossi style LENR, then aircraft are inevitable. The first application, which would bypass all of Rossi's concerns: DOD surveillance drones. Next step, long range attack drones, finally civilian drones in various applications. Computer guidance and parachutes will minimize the chance of the later civilian devices doing much unintended damage.
To get over the power density issue, an LENR / lithium battery and permanent magnet motor nexus is a natural augmentation to the solar PV assisted long range ROV. No jet required at this point.... Even if water steam is not practical, an ozone sparing rated refrigerant (several are available) can be cycled for turbo-electric, or piston electric generation. Or such rotating power can be directly geared to the ducted fan / prop drive, with condensers integral to wing structures. For take off, add in the stored energy of ultracapacitors and/or lithiums. On slowing for landing, or just to lower altitude, one can even imagine a bit of regeneration given good control of prop feathering. If the bottom surfaces of the wings are used for condensing the working fluid, then the top surfaces of the whole plane can be the best available lightweight photo voltaic film available... that to keep the lithiums/ UCs , AC and avionics sleep mode alive when the plane is grounded and allows some "free" maintenance current during flights.
Everything I mention above exists, with the possible exception of viable LENR. One thing is certain, jet engine temperatures are absolutely not required for low speed aircraft. For high performance fighters or near sonic passenger jets.... well that is surely well over 20 years away.
