Project description
Green hydrogen gets a boost from novel compression technology
Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe. On a mass basis, hydrogen has an energy density nearly three times that of gasoline and diesel. The problem is that, by volume, the gas has a naturally low energy density meaning that exploiting its potential requires compressing it. Compression remains the most challenging obstacle to efficient hydrogen refuelling stations. The EU-funded COSMHYC DEMO project will tackle this barrier with an innovative hybrid solution combining mechanical and metal-hydride compressors, with potential to greatly increase efficiency and reliability, as well as lower maintenance costs and electrical power consumption. The solution works with hydrogen from many sources and is also compatible with green hydrogen from solar-powered water electrolysis.
Objective
Hydrogen mobility is gaining unprecedented momentum through the deployment of passenger & heavy-duty FCEVs. Although the number of Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) is increasing, the development of a refuelling infrastructure remains a major issue. Today, the compressor is the most challenging component in an HRS in terms of costs and reliability.
The COSMHYC consortium developed an innovative compression solution (which combines metal hydride and diaphragm compressors), specifically addressing the needs of H2 mobility. In previous research projects, comprehensive tests enabled this technology to reach TRL5. The solution is now ready for real-life validation within the COSMHYC DEMO project. The aim is to demonstrate that it is well adapted to commercial use for a wide range of H2 applications. The project includes design, construction and integration of the demonstrator in a new dual-pressure HRS supplied with green hydrogen from solar-powered water electrolysis. This HRS is a central part of HYSOPARC, a project implemented by CCTVI (a grouping of municipalities) near Tours, France, for driving regional development based on H2 technologies. The HRS will supply a fleet of 700 bar passenger vehicles, 350 bar utility vehicles and a 700 bar garbage truck. This project presents a great opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness and versatility of the innovative compression solution.
The consortium will achieve further innovations on the compression solution followed by a 15 month demonstration phase within the HRS. The compression solution will be CE-certified & will meet latest refuelling standards, incl. for hydrogen purity. An advisory committee will support the partners to validate the solution against the needs of end-users. Market entry will be prepared through a techno-economic analysis and extensive communication, dissemination and exploitation activities, maximising the economic, environmental and societal impacts of the project.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
FCH2-IA - Innovation actionCoordinator
76131 Karlsruhe
Germany