Combustionpowered

Combustionpowered is a term used to describe devices or systems that derive energy primarily from the chemical energy stored in fuels that burn to release heat. The heat is converted into mechanical work or electricity, typically via engines or turbines. This contrasts with electric, hydraulic, or solar systems that do not rely on ongoing combustion.

Technologies described as combustionpowered include internal combustion engines such as gasoline and diesel engines used in vehicles, and external combustion devices like steam turbines and boilers that burn fuels to produce steam. Gas turbines and specialized engines operate in aviation, power generation, and industrial settings, often within heat-recovery or hybrid energy systems.

Fuels range from petroleum products to natural gas and biofuels, with hydrogen in some applications. Efficiency varies widely; automotive engines commonly achieve brake thermal efficiency in the range of about 25 to 40 percent, while modern combined-cycle power plants and advanced turbines can exceed 50 percent. Emissions include carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulates.

Advantages of combustionpowered systems include high energy density, established technology, and broad fuel infrastructure. Challenges include environmental impact, particularly greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, resource depletion, and reliance on fossil fuels. Ongoing work seeks cleaner combustion, alternative fuels (biofuels, synthetic fuels, natural gas), and opportunities to blend or supplement with electrification.

See also internal combustion engine, gas turbine, combined-cycle power plant, biofuel.