Cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment of titanium, basalt and natural fiber composite for aerospace structural applications

The total emissions generated during the manufacturing, use, and disposal of aerospace materials and selected components were evaluated and compared using a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) of structural aircraft materials. Initially, the potential of lightweight composite materials to reduce aviation-related emissions was investigated by comparing plates made from Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy, carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), and basalt fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP). Subsequently, a case study of a tubular component was conducted using high-quality manufacturing data obtained directly from the manufacturing process. In this case, a composite tubular component was used as a replacement for a conventional structural steel tube. The results revealed a significant cumulative reduction in aviation fuel consumption and emissions, particularly when CFRP structures were incorporated into aircraft components. The environmental assessment also considered the long-term performance of CFRPs under specific conditions related to raw material production, component use and operation, and end-of-life disposal. Overall, the findings demonstrate the potential of CFRP and other lightweight composite materials to reduce the environmental impact of aircraft structures throughout their life cycle.