Honeywell and the US Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have joined forces in support of new hydrogen fuel storage solutions.
Under terms of a year-long effort the duo will specifically focus on the commercialisation of cartage-based hydrogen fuel storage solution for uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Additionally, the partnership will look to prove that hydrogen can help address long-range and heavy-payload concerns.
The effort will be part of the “Fuel Additives for Solid Hydrogen (FLASH) Carriers in Electric Aviation” project that looks to mature new hydrogen carrier technology.
Specifically, the FLASH project is focused on a solid material that can rapidly release hydrogen gas for use by the fuel cell. The material has a high hydrogen capacity and can operate at low temperatures.
Katherine Hurst, Senior Scientist and Group Manager of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), described the effort as an exciting opportunity to demonstrate the performance of hydrogen storage materials.
She added, “Today’s long-range are typically powered by internal combustion engines. While they provide the required range that battery -powered electric UAVs lack, these engines have issues with excessive noise, vibration, and emissions, including carbon emissions.”
To qualify for the project, Honeywell will provide technological expertise, testing for fuel cartridge technology, supply chain support, prototyping, and fuel cell evaluation.
Dave Shilliday, Vice-President and General Manager of Urban Air Mobility and Uncrewed Aerial Systems at Honeywell Aerospace, notes that using hydrogen as a power source can significantly expand the possibilities of UAVs beyond the limitations of battery-electric powertrains.
He added, “Honeywell will work with NREL to develop the necessary hydrogen-related technology to contribute to the further growth of the industry.”
Helium Super Summit 2023
Four major global shortages in 18 years, and yet the greatest challenge facing the helium business in 2023/24 is the uncertainty that hangs over the market and its array of end-users.
The source of that uncertainty – and perhaps the enduring Helium Shortage 4.0 – is the terse geopolitical climate the world is engulfed in. Sourcing, shipping and supplying helium where it’s needed has arguably never been more challenging, or rewarding.
This new ‘gold rush’ has given rise to innovative helium extraction and production, with exploration activity on five continents. But at a time when demand growth is expected to accelerate, the supply chain is crunched and helium hotspots continue to come to the fore, the same cloud of uncertainty still hangs over this invaluable business.
All of which means there are a host of questions to be answered as the global helium business and its customers are Steering Through Uncertainty. Join gasworld and more than 300 fellow stakeholders in the global helium business under this theme for Helium Super Summit 2023 from October 30 – November 1 at The Westin Galleria Hotel in Houston, Texas.
The ultimate gathering of the global helium business, loaded with unrivalled speakers and insights, 2.5 days of quality networking opportunities, and a toolkit of knowledge to inform your investment in helium and its services. Bookings are open. For more information and to secure your ticket, visit https://gasworldconferences.com/conference/helium-super-summit-2023-houston/
