Carlos Xisto

Carlos Xisto is an Associate Professor at the Division of Fluid Dynamics within the Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences at Chalmers University of Technology. His research focuses on developing radical propulsion systems for sustainable aviation, with emphasis on hydrogen-powered engines, computational fluid dynamics, and heat management technologies.

Research Focus

Dr. Xisto's expertise spans compressible flow, turbomachinery, plasma dynamics, and magnetohydrodynamics. He investigates novel aero-engine concepts for mid-century applications, prioritizing hydrogen propulsion to enhance aviation sustainability. His work integrates experimental and computational approaches to optimize thermal efficiency, reduce emissions, and advance next-generation aircraft design.

Publication Trends

Recent publications (2022-2024) demonstrate strong focus on hydrogen propulsion systems, including heat exchanger integration, cryogenic fuel management, and aerodynamic optimization of turbofan engines. Computational fluid dynamics and experimental validation underpin research in boundary layer ingestion, compressor design, and propulsion-airframe integration.

Projects & Leadership

He leads 11 major research initiatives including:

• EXAELIA (2025-2028): European Commission-funded experimental aircraft development
• Minimum environmental impact ultra-efficient cores (2022-2026): EU project for sustainable aircraft propulsion
• ENABLEH2 (2018-2021): Cryogenic hydrogen-based CO₂-free air transport
• Multiple VINNOVA projects on heat exchangers and high-speed propellers (2023-2028)

Collaborates across European institutions on hybrid-electric propulsion (IMOTHEP) and ultra-low emission technologies (ULTIMATE).