China has announced a significant advancement in aviation technology with the development of a shark skin-inspired structure embedded within a turbofan engine. According to Chinese researchers, this innovation could dramatically reduce drag and enhance engine efficiency, potentially positioning China as a leader in next-generation engine development.
The “shark skin” structure, crafted from high-strength titanium alloy through precision 3D printing, is hailed as a game-changer in aerodynamics. The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reports that this technology could reduce drag by up to 10%, marking a substantial improvement in engine performance.
Central to this innovation is an engine component known as the intermediate casing. This crucial element, over a meter in diameter, features bionic grooves between 15 to 35 micrometers deep—finer than a human hair. Manufacturing such a large, precise hard alloy component with a 3D printer was previously unattainable, but advanced 3D printing techniques and commercial software have now made it possible.
The intermediate casing connects various engine components and transmits thrust to the aircraft fuselage. Despite its slender profile—just 3mm at its thinnest point—the casing can withstand loads exceeding 10 tonnes. Laboratory tests have confirmed that the prototype meets stringent mechanical requirements and reduces weight by 25% compared to traditional castings without compromising structural integrity.
This breakthrough promises significant advancements in aviation, paving the way for lighter, more efficient engine designs. Researchers envision a future where hollow fan blades, free from conventional structural constraints, can incorporate advanced internal skeletons and lattice structures, enhancing impact resistance.
Implications for Global Competition
This innovation could help China catch up with—and potentially surpass—the United States and its allies in modern engine development, a field where China has historically lagged. Chinese military aircraft have long relied on Russian jet engines, which often suffered from reliability issues and subpar performance. This dependency prompted China to invest heavily in indigenous engine development.
China’s efforts have begun to pay off. The country now equips its premier J-20 stealth fighter jets with domestically produced Xi’an-built Woshan-15 (涡扇-15 or WS-15) “Emei” engines. John R. Sneden, propulsion director for the US Air Force’s Life Cycle Management Centre, has acknowledged China’s significant investments in propulsion technologies, warning that the US is losing its propulsion lead to China.
Although Beijing’s technological prowess in engine development may not yet rival that of the United States, Chinese media claim that the shark skin technology could place China in a competitive position. The next generation of engines requires reduced fuel consumption for increased thrust, presenting numerous challenges.
China’s advancements come as the US reevaluates its approach to next-generation fighter engines. The US Air Force recently announced plans to abandon the Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP) in favor of upgrading existing engines, highlighting the difficulties in developing new propulsion systems.
Patricia Marins, a Brazil-based defense expert, told EurAsian Times, “There is just a point on this. Military jets work more with turbojet engines, not turbofans, which are more used in commercial aviation.” However, Marins acknowledges the transformative potential of this technology, particularly for cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
China’s shark skin technology represents a crucial advancement. Similar innovations are being explored globally. In early 2022, Lufthansa Group’s Boeing 747 400 featured AeroSHARK, a film-like coating with ribbed textures designed to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency. This biomimicry application aims to cut fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions, reflecting the airline industry’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
China’s latest breakthrough could significantly impact the future of aviation, offering a pathway to more efficient and environmentally friendly engine designs. With continued investment and innovation, Beijing is well-positioned to challenge the dominance of traditional aerospace leaders like the USA.