Fettig, I'm in the process myself of doing some research on this topic as well, .....but not for a class. I 've found some sites in my travels that you may want to check out.
The other thing is lookup Fuel Cracking or Gasoline Cracking....that should get you some good info.
Here's those links:
http://www.teslatech.info/ttstore/ar.../geet/geet.htm http://www.himacresearch.com/docs/energy.html
The first link is a Geet Reactor, the second link describes what happens to people when they come up with a great idea and the oil companies step in.....But, it also provides some good inside / background info that I think will help you out.
As for a turbo, yeah I'm looking for one as well, and you'll be better off getting a used unit at a local boneyard.
The impeller blades are made out of steel in most cases, out of the fact I don't think AL would stand up to the 800 - 1200 ' temps regularly considering it's melting point is 1400' or so.
If I find anymore info, I'll pass it your way......
Lots of luck..
-arthur
p.s. if you do decide to build one out of al, use ball bearings to support the center, good ball bearings....suprisingly alot of turbo builders / manufacturers used a lubricated center bushing up until recently......