Engineering Commons^™

Effects Of High Altitude Jet Aircraft On The Stratosphere, Dennis K. Bushnell

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This paper presents a review of the basic thermal, chemical and radiation balances existing in the atmosphere and discusses the mechanisms by which jet engine exhaust products can disturb these balances. Possible effects of stratospheric pollution on plant and animal life are discussed. Methods for reducing harmful emissions through engine design modifications are outlined and current successful research programs are surveyed. The SST type aircraft is shown to be a greater threat to the environment than conventional jets because of differences in cruise altitudes. It is concluded that due to the existence of several potential environmental problems associated with contamination …