Toroidal Propellers for Efficient and Sustainable Aviation
The Vision:
​TorPropel is a transformative research and innovation action funded under the EIC Pathfinder Open programme. At its core is a radically new propulsion concept: toroidal propellers. Unlike conventional blade designs, toroidal geometries offer a leap in aerodynamic performance, enabling quieter, cleaner, and more efficient air travel —particularly in the growing landscape of electric, urban, and vertical aviation.
What We Aim to Do:
Over 36 months, the TorPropel consortium will research, develop, and prototype a new generation of propellers that combine:
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Superior thrust performance
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Advanced carbon fibre composites
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Sustainable, recyclable materials (Vitrimers)
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Robotic manufacturing and process automation
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Real-time condition monitoring systems embedded in the structure
This initiative is not only a technical challenge—it’s a bold move toward the decarbonisation and digitalisation of short-range aviation.
Innovation & Technology
Key Technological Pillars:
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Toroidal Propeller Geometry: A closed-loop design significantly reduces vortex shedding and improves acoustic performance.
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Advanced Composite Materials: Use of carbon fibre-reinforced polymers, with recyclable and repairable vitrimer resins.
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Robotic Manufacturing: Integration of Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) and other automated manufacturing techniques to enable high-precision and scalable production.
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Structural Health Monitoring (SHM): Embedded sensing systems for real-time monitoring, damage detection, and predictive maintenance, enhancing safety and reducing lifecycle costs.
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Sustainability & Lifecycle: Every stage, from design to dismantling, is engineered for circularity, aligning with EU Green Deal ambitions.
Who We Are
Consortium Overview
The TorPropel consortium unites 9 top-tier partners from 7 countries, including universities, RTOs, SMEs, and industrial players. The partners bring deep expertise across materials science, aerodynamics, robotics, and aerospace certification.
2025
Year of Establishment
9
Partners
7
Countries
35
Experts
The Consortium
