Säker storskalig vätgasbunkring - test och validering

Green hydrogen is seen as crucial element for the sustainable energy transition in the maritime industry. However, hydrogen's high energy density per weight-unit and poor energy density per volume-unit present challenges for operational range, bunkering, and onboard storage. These limitations constitute a problem when it comes to large scale applications of hydrogen. Especially seen to the bunkering for larger ships which both have a demand for large volumes and swift filling times (for example a passenger ferry with a fixed schedule). If hydrogen is filled at high flowrate, the temperate within the storage-tanks increases to an extent that threaten compromise cylinder material and cause a rupture.

To overcome this, a concept has been developed by KTH in a previous project where cooling takes place onboard using seawater in a heat-exchanging system inside the cylinder/storage tanks, preventing temperature rise beyond the allowed limit. If proven viable, this unique cylinder design could revolutionize maritime hydrogen applications by enabling fast-filling of large volumes.

The project aims to validate and analyse this new cylinder design by manufacturing prototypes equipped with heat exchangers and conducting performance tests. The goal is to reach a maturity level of TRL 4 (Technology Readiness Level 4) by the project's end, demonstrating the technology's ability to allow desired filling flow rates without critical temperature levels and explosion risks. This project has the potential to significantly contribute to the safe and efficient large-scale hydrogen filling in the maritime industry.

The project is financed via the Swedish Transport Administration.