Project description
Large-scale hydrogen storage with insulation
The storage of liquid hydrogen (LH2) is challenging due to its extremely low temperature, which requires highly efficient and reliable insulation systems. Existing technologies are not scalable for large volumes. These barriers hinder the development of efficient LH2 infrastructure critical to the hydrogen economy. Innovative storage concepts are urgently needed. In this context, the EU-funded NICOLHy project will develop a novel insulation concept for large-scale LH2 storage based on vacuum insulation panels (VIP). This insulation approach promises to reduce costs, improve safety and enhance energy efficiency. By exploring material, safety, and economic aspects through testing and modelling, NICOLHy will develop scalable, modular insulation solutions for both onshore and offshore LH2 tanks. The project's success will contribute to more cost-effective and sustainable hydrogen storage.
Objective
The NICOLHy project aims to develop novel insulation concepts based on Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) that enables the safe, cost- and energy efficient storage of large quantities of LH2. New design concepts are needed because the current technologies used in small and medium storages today are not suitable for up-scaling since would imply prohibitive costs, long construction time, low failure tolerance and limitation on tank shape selection.
To overcome this challenge, NICOLHy will utilize for the first time the VIP thermal insulation principle for LH2 storage. The project objectives will be achieved by applying a holistic approach by investigating material, safety, energy and economic aspects through both modelling and testing of the insulation. Analysis of circularity, sustainability, and scalability of the whole LH2 tank system will be conducted. The NICOLHy consortium, which brings together experts from different fields and disciplines is ideally suited for this ambitious project.
Recent results from NICOLHy project partners indicate that this insulation principle is successfully applicable to storing large quantities of LH2 leading to decreasing storage costs and safety and energy efficiency enhancement. Other advantages compared to existing solutions are the reduced construction time and the increasing failure tolerance. NICOLHy will develop further the preliminary evaluated modular and open-form insulation applicable for onshore and offshore LH2 tank applications.
The validation of this new insulation concept will enable the design of cost-efficient large-scale LH2 storage tanks with minimal LH2 boil-off. Thereby, NICOLHy will accelerate the integration of hydrogen into the European energy economy and industry, which is necessary to be in line with the European Green Deal and to keep confidence of the population in the policy and the technology.
Keywords
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.2.5 - Climate, Energy and Mobility Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-JU-RIA - HORIZON JU Research and Innovation ActionsCoordinator
12205 Berlin
Germany