Exploring the Future of Liquid Hydrogen: Vacuum Jackets Take Center Stage in Upcoming Leybold Webinar
- HYSKY Society
- Apr 18
- 2 min read

Hydrogen aviation stakeholders, take note! Leybold is hosting a not-to-be-missed webinar on May 7, 2025, diving deep into the evolving landscape of liquid hydrogen (LH₂) systems and the critical role of vacuum jackets. Two industry experts—Matt Moran and Norbert Palenstijn—will guide participants through groundbreaking developments in cryogenic storage and vacuum technology that are poised to accelerate hydrogen’s role in decarbonizing aviation.
Why This Matters
As the aerospace and hydrogen industries rapidly converge, understanding how to safely and efficiently store liquid hydrogen is essential. This one-hour online event will unpack cryogenic thermal design strategies, best practices for vent gas mitigation, and introduce the next-generation vacuum solution: VARODRYKE.
Matt Moran, a seasoned expert with over 40 years in power and propulsion (including NASA and DARPA projects), brings a wealth of knowledge with three U.S. patents and more than 50 publications. He'll be joined by Norbert Palenstijn, whose 26 years of experience span vacuum systems and leak detection in fields from defense to HVAC and carbon capture.
Key Topics Include:
Design strategies for hydrogen storage and cryogenic systems
Importance of vacuum-jacketed LH₂ dewars in minimizing thermal loss
Techniques for utilizing and mitigating vent gas emissions
Introduction to VARODRYKE, Leybold’s innovative vacuum technology
Plus, webinar attendees will have the chance to win a limited-edition VARODRYKE LEGO kit—a 187-brick collector’s model complete with a Leybold mini-figure.
Webinar Details:
📅 Date: May 7, 2025
⏰ Time: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. EST
📍 Online (link provided upon registration)
Speakers:
Matt Moran — Expert in hydrogen propulsion and cryogenic systems
Norbert Palenstijn — Specialist in leak testing, vacuum systems, and advanced applications
For the latest news, insights, and content regarding hydrogen aviation, please join the following HYSKY Society channels: YouTube, X, and LinkedIn.
FAQ: Hydrogen Aviation and Liquid Hydrogen Systems
What is liquid hydrogen used for in aviation?
Liquid hydrogen serves as a high-density, low-weight fuel alternative in hydrogen-powered aircraft.
Why are vacuum jackets important in LH₂ systems?
They insulate cryogenic containers, reducing thermal transfer and minimizing boil-off losses.
What is vent gas and why does it need to be mitigated?
Vent gas is evaporated hydrogen that escapes during storage. Proper mitigation prevents energy loss and safety hazards.
What is a dewar in cryogenic systems?
A dewar is a specialized container designed to store extremely cold liquids like LH₂, often vacuum-insulated.
How does vacuum technology improve hydrogen storage?
Vacuum systems reduce heat ingress, helping to maintain LH₂ in its liquid state longer and more efficiently.
What is VARODRYKE?
VARODRYKE is Leybold’s next-gen vacuum pump solution designed specifically for cryogenic and hydrogen systems.
Can vacuum-jacketed LH₂ systems be used in aircraft?
Yes, these systems are being adapted for aerospace use, ensuring lightweight and efficient fuel storage.
What safety measures are essential in LH₂ storage?
Leak detection, pressure relief systems, and vacuum insulation are critical for safe LH₂ handling.
Is liquid hydrogen more efficient than gaseous hydrogen for aviation?
Yes, LH₂ has a higher energy density by volume, making it more suitable for aircraft with space constraints.
What are the economic benefits of advanced cryogenic storage?
Efficient storage reduces hydrogen loss, improves safety, and supports scalable deployment in aviation infrastructure.
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