Development and production of conformable hydrogen storage for future hydrogen-powered aircraft
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Nitiu AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 7 982 499 |
| Project duration | May 2024 - May 2026 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Demo call - SME focus |
| Call | Demo announcement - SME focus |
Important results from the project
The project aimed to develop a tank prototype for storing liquid hydrogen, intended as a candidate for the Airbus ZEROe demonstrator. Goals included a 70% gravimetric index and 80-90% conformability. Technical readiness level TRL-5 was partially achieved. Small-scale tanks reached 30%, but full-scale tanks are expected to reach 70%. Tests included leak testing, cryogenic conditions, and structural integrity.
Expected long term effects
The project has already and will likely continue to provide several long-term effects, as it paves the way for international collaborations and applications to larger projects such as Clean Aviation. The technology reached TRL-4, clarifying important manufacturing aspects for full-scale tanks. Proven welding joint technology and material durability enable automated manufacturing and cryogenic use, which is crucial for future hydrogen-based solutions.
Approach and implementation
The project followed the planned structure with development, manufacturing, and validation of a hydrogen tank prototype. The activities were appropriate, but the smaller tank size reduced the gravimetric index to 30% instead of 35%. The timeline was mostly maintained, but limited test resources delayed the TRL-5 goal to TRL-4. Collaboration worked well despite external challenges.