The University of Melbourne, in collaboration with industry partners, embarks on a pioneering venture to develop mega-scale liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage systems and infrastructure.
The lack of large-scale storage infrastructure and transport vessels has hindered the global uptake of liquid hydrogen. The University of Melbourne aims to bridge this gap by developing cutting-edge technologies to facilitate safe and efficient LH2 storage and transportation.
Led by Project Leader Shanaka Kristombu Baduge, the team plans to integrate cryogenic testing capabilities to handle the extreme temperatures required for LH2 storage (-253.15°C). Innovations in magnetic refrigeration and insulation systems are pivotal for achieving cost-effective and safe storage solutions.
The project entails two main stages: simulating cryogenic boil-off gas and fabricating a prototype tank with integrated insulation systems and magnetic refrigeration units. These phases emphasize the importance of rigorous testing and validation in developing reliable storage solutions.
Funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the project aligns with Australia’s hydrogen export goals and decarbonization targets. With an expected completion by March 2029, this initiative signifies a significant step towards realizing a sustainable hydrogen economy.
