Safe Large-Scale Hydrogen Bunkering - Testing and ValidationSafe Large-Scale Hydrogen Bunkering - Testing and Validation

Green hydrogen is considered a crucial element in the sustainable energy transition for the maritime industry. However, hydrogen's high energy density per unit of weight and low energy density per unit of volume present challenges for operational range, bunkering, and onboard storage. These limitations create problems for large-scale applications of hydrogen, particularly when it comes to bunkering larger vessels that require both large volumes and rapid filling times (for example, a passenger ferry with a fixed timetable). When hydrogen is filled at high flow rates, the temperature in the storage tanks can increase to a degree that may weaken the tank materials and lead to failure.

To address this, a concept has been developed by KTH in a previous project, where cooling takes place onboard using seawater in a heat exchange system inside the cylinder/storage tank. This prevents the temperature from rising beyond the permitted limits. If the concept proves to be viable, this unique cylinder design could revolutionise maritime hydrogen applications by enabling rapid filling of large volumes.

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

Read more here: https://www.ri.se/sv/vad-vi-gor/projekt/saker-storskalig-vatgasbunkring-test-och-validering