New Liquid Hydrogen Storage Tech May Launch Hydrogen Aviation Sooner Than Expected

A major leap forward in liquid hydrogen storage could fast-track the reality of zero-emission aviation. Researchers at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) have achieved a critical milestone by developing new cryogenic liquid hydrogen tanks designed specifically for aircraft. These tanks are 35% lighter than conventional solutions, significantly enhancing the feasibility of hydrogen-powered flight.

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Why It Matters for Hydrogen Aviation

The breakthrough centers on DLR’s development of two cryogenic storage tanks under the LuFo VI-2 project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). One tank is cylindrical, and the other conforms to an aircraft’s fuselage, maximizing space efficiency and integration. These tanks are being optimized for the 328 ALPHA, a hydrogen-powered demonstrator aircraft based on the Dornier 328, developed by Deutsche Aircraft.

The tanks are not only lighter but also easier to maintain and integrate, marking a significant improvement in the practicality of hydrogen-powered aviation. By reducing weight by over a third, these tanks directly increase the range and payload capacity of hydrogen aircraft, addressing two of the most critical limitations in hydrogen flight.

According to Johannes Schell, Project Manager at DLR Institute of Aerospace Thermodynamics:

“This development is a key milestone on the road to zero-emission aviation.”

DLR's collaborative work with Deutsche Aircraft and BMWK showcases the growing momentum in Europe for decarbonizing the skies. The testing and validation process is ongoing, with the potential to reshape the commercial viability of hydrogen aircraft in the coming years.

For more information

https://www.dlr.de

(Top image: Credit — DLR)

FAQ: Hydrogen Aviation & Liquid Hydrogen Storage

1. What is liquid hydrogen and why is it used in aviation?

   1. Liquid hydrogen is hydrogen gas cooled to extremely low temperatures, making it denser and more energy-efficient for storage and long-range flight.

2. How is liquid hydrogen stored in aircraft?

   1. It is stored in specially designed cryogenic tanks that maintain extremely low temperatures to keep the hydrogen in liquid form.

3. What are cryogenic tanks?

   1. These are insulated containers that maintain extremely cold temperatures required for storing gases like liquid hydrogen.

4. Why is tank weight important in aviation?

   1. Lighter tanks improve fuel efficiency, increase range, and enable aircraft to carry more passengers or cargo.

5. How does hydrogen compare to traditional aviation fuel?

   1. Hydrogen produces zero emissions when used in fuel cells, unlike kerosene-based jet fuel which emits CO₂ and other pollutants.

6. Is hydrogen aviation safe?

   1. Yes, with proper engineering and handling, hydrogen can be stored and used safely, similar to how it’s managed in the space and automotive industries.

7. What is the 328 ALPHA aircraft?

   1. It’s a hydrogen-powered demonstrator plane based on the Dornier 328, developed by Deutsche Aircraft in partnership with DLR.

8. Who funds hydrogen aviation research in Germany?

   1. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) provides funding through initiatives like LuFo VI-2.

9. When will hydrogen-powered planes become commercial?

   1. Demonstrators like the 328 ALPHA are aiming for flights within the next few years, with commercial operations likely by the 2030s.

10. What is the environmental impact of hydrogen aviation?

    1. Hydrogen-powered aircraft emit only water vapor, helping to eliminate carbon emissions from air travel.