Because the transport segment makes up about one-third of all CO2 emissions in the European Union (> 1,000 MILL ton), its decarbonization represents a key element in achieving the energy transition. Fuel Cells and Hydrogen (FCH), outperforming batteries in all relevant indicators, is the most promising solution for decarbonizing trucks, buses, ships, trains, large cars, with commercial vehicles being considered the early adopters. By 2030 this new industry has the potential to generate a €130 bn market only in the European Union. The market-entry goal is to fit 5kg H2 in a gasoline equivalent tank (80 kg/90 l). However, state-of-the-art technology for H2 storage on-board, based on compression at 700bar, is still disappointing in terms of volumetric density (25 gH2/lsys), preventing a widespread penetration of FCEVs.
Based on a new generation of Machine Learning-improved ultraporous materials – such as Activated Carbons (ACs) and high-density MOFs (Metal-organic Frameworks) –, MAST3RBoost project will enable a disruptive path to meet the industry goals by developing the first worldwide adsorption-based demonstrator at the kg-scale. Lightweight vessels –embedding the ultraporous materials– will be created taking advantage of the innovative Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing, with dedicated shapes to better fit on-board specific transportation spaces.
Recycled raw materials for the manufacturing of the ultraporous materials will be actively pursued, both from waste agroforestry biomass and from solid urban waste. The research and development process will be performed applying Life Cycle thinking strategies to minimise overall environmental impacts and improve economic performance of the hydrogen storage system from the design phase.
Funded by the European Union under grant agreement 101058574. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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