The Münster University of Applied Sciences has been investigating methods of producing, storing, and utilizing green hydrogen for some time now: a sustainable, regenerative energy source that can help Germany achieve near-CO2 neutrality.
Previously, multiple research groups worked on it separately; now, the institution is combining the knowledge of its various departments to address the issue thoroughly. This is something that the hydrogen cluster has begun to work on.
Prof. Dr. Christof Wetter, who founded the hydrogen cluster alongside Prof. Dr. Thomas Jüstel, adds, “We aim to establish ourselves as an institution that lives and breathes.” “To that goal, we’d like to bring together as many of the university’s departments as possible, exchange ideas on a regular basis, and work together to build a broad foundation for hydrogen research at our institution.”
Around 20 scientists from the technical departments of the Münster University of Applied Sciences gathered in Steinfurt for the first project meeting – under 2G + conditions and in compliance with the mask requirement – to work on initial questions in a workshop: How can green hydrogen be produced, stored, transported, and used? “The participants demonstrate the breadth of research and development efforts,” Jüstel added.
However, the energy source raises a number of broad problems that will need to be addressed over time. “The topic necessitates an interdisciplinary interchange because it places demands on science, industry, and politics,” says Mark Scheffler of Prof. Wetter and Dr. Elmar Brügging’s study team. He is persuaded that “we must develop social acceptance for hydrogen and transmit our results to society.”
Since the hydrogen cluster’s inaugural meeting, groups of experts have been created on several topic areas and are now getting down to business. Wetter exclaims, “It’s terrific that we can now start as a group and take things ahead.”
