Waste to Hydrogen

Project Information

Waste2H2

Grant agreement ID: 952593

DOI

10.3030/952593

Project closed

EC signature date 16 June 2020

Start date 1 January 2021

End date 31 December 2023

Funded under

• Twinning of research institutions

Total cost

€ 899 718,75

EU contribution

€ 899 718,75

Coordinated by

INSTITUTO POLITÉCNICO DE PORTALEGRE
Portugal

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - Waste2H2 (Waste to Hydrogen)

Reporting period: 2022-04-01 to 2023-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

WASTE2H2 aimed to strenghten IPPortalegre’s expertise in gas cleaning and conversion technologies for hydrogen production. Leveraging existing knowledge in syngas production from various biomass waste materials and tapping into European expertise in syngas production and cleaning techniques, the project propelled IPPortalegre forward. Moreover, it stimulated investment in research and innovation (R&I), aligning with the Europe 2020 strategy's emphasis on R&I as a key driver of economic recovery.
To realize these ambitions, WASTE2H2 orchestrated a series of activities such as workshops, summer schools, visits, exchanges, and a final conference. These initiatives elevated IPPortalegre's research profile and fortified its scientific, technological, and innovation capabilities. Over 36 months, the project delivered 24 key outputs spanning strategic planning, research insights, and dissemination materials, fostering a deeper understanding of waste-to-hydrogen conversion technologies. These outputs, culminating in 19 public documents, significantly advanced scientific knowledge in the field.
Furthermore, the project prioritized effective communication and collaboration, evidenced by regular consortium meetings fostering information exchange and coordination. Five Short-Term Staff Exchanges facilitated collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers from diverse institutions. While commendable strides were made in gender equality, with female participation reaching 39% overall in the final conference, efforts continue to bridge the gap.
Beyond academia, WASTE2H2 made tangible impacts, securing international funding, and providing technical services to industries. IPPortalegre thrived through its participation, bolstering its research capabilities, broadening understanding, expanding networks, and enhancing funding acquisition strategies. The project elevated IPPortalegre's visibility and reputation, positioning it as a key player in sustainable energy research.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

This report covers the period between M16 and M36. WASTE2H2 achieved significant results across its working packages.

WP1: This WP consolidated research status, laying a foundation for subsequent activities, namely the delivery of a Joint Strategic Research and Technology Innovation Planning. Furthermore, funding opportunities were identified and despite setbacks with the CONFLUENCE proposal, lessons learned led to improvements and it's resubmission.

WP2: Facilitated knowledge transfer and collaboration through 3 thematic workshops and 3 exploratory visits. These activities enhanced expertise and strengthened partnerships in renewable energy research accompanied by direct contact with the industry.

WP3: Enhanced capacitation of Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) through various events, although some were delayed due to COVID. Short-term scientific staff exchanges (STSE) and Immersive Summer Schools (ISS) provided valuable experiences, despite travel limitations. Efforts were made to promote gender equality thorughout all the events, altough maximum female participation only reached 39%.

WP4: Achieved milestones in knowledge management and science-industry collaboration. IP management, stakeholder database establishment, and successful collaborations with industry partners were notable. Exploratory visits provided insights into industry needs.

WP5: Exploitation and sustainability strategies, yielding comprehensive documents were developed. New funding opportunites were researched, resulting in one successful project proposal and 1 resubmission. A white paper on 'Waste to Hydrogen', was publised on Hydrogen (MDPI).

WP6: This WP focused on project outreach and dissemination. Tasks included developing an Outreach and Dissemination Plan, internal and external communication channels, dissemination activities (e.g. the project's Final Conference), and outreach efforts evaluated for impact. These efforts effectively promoted knowledge transfer and project sustainability.

WP7: Managed the project effectively, ensuring tasks were completed in the most timely way possible and within budget. Key documents provided clear guidelines, and risk management strategies were proactive. Gender equality efforts were documented, contributing to inclusivity and project success.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

Hydrogen is at the forefront of a technology revolution that is vital for the survival of the planet. Hydrogen has a very low carbon footprint, in case it is produced from renewable sources such as biomass or wastes. IPPortalegre has significant experience in thermal gasification processes and technologies mainly focused on electricity production in internal combustion engines. However, IPPortalegre lacked knowledge in syngas enhancement leading to hydrogen production. This project represented an opportunity for IPPortalegre to go beyond of what is currently its working knowledge on gasification technologies and hydrogen production. By partnering with KTH, ENEA and KIT, IPPortalegre had the opportunity to gain knowledge in syngas upgrading by learning and implementing new research lines, strengthening its research profile, thus countering the crowding-out effect in this highly competitive field. The progress beyond the state of the art achieved by the WASTE2H2 project lies in its advancement of gas cleaning and conversion technologies for hydrogen production, particularly focusing on utilizing biomass waste materials. By leveraging existing knowledge and acquiring new expertise from European leaders in the field, the project expanded the capabilities of IPPortalegre, moving beyond conventional approaches to waste-to-hydrogen conversion. Through workshops, summerschools, and staff exchanges, the project facilitated knowledge transfer and collaboration, enabling IPPortalegre to adopt innovative techniques and best practices. Project results included the development of comprehensive strategies for sustainable hydrogen production, successful funding applications, and increased visibility and recognition for IPPortalegre within the scientific community. Moreover, the socio-economic impact and wider societal implications of the project are significant, as they contribute to the transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system. By promoting research and innovation in renewable energy technologies, the project aligns with Europe's strategic goals for economic growth, job creation, and environmental protection. Furthermore, by addressing gender equality and fostering inclusivity, the project enhances diversity and promotes equal opportunities in the field of science and technology, ultimately benefiting society. Overall, IPPortalegre gained know-how in the whole value chain of waste thermal gasification for hydrogen production and is in fact becoming a high-profile R&D player. This position will be extremely relevant for Portugal and for the Alentejo region since gasification for hydrogen production is one of the technological pathways predicted by the Portuguese national hydrogen strategy. Thus, as a direct result of WASTE2H2, IPPortalegre will have a very significant role to play in the Portuguese energy transition period.

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