Cryogenic hydrogen-electric propulsion could lead to net-zero air travel

The University of Nottingham has launched a £5.3 million ($6.76 million) research program to develop a cutting-edge cryogenic hydrogen-electric propulsion system.

Part of a broader GKN Aerospace-led £44 million H2FlyGHT project, this initiative aims to create a 2-megawatt (MW) prototype engine that will transform the aviation industry by paving the way for larger, more sustainable aircraft.

The H2FlyGHT collaboration seeks to integrate fuel cell power generation, cryogenic power distribution, and advanced cryogenic drive systems into a cohesive propulsion unit.

The collaboration is supported by the United Kingdom Government through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) program, which also includes Parker Meggitt and the University of Manchester.

“The vision of net-zero air travel is within our sights,” said Chris Gerada, Professor of Electrical Machines and the lead for strategic research and innovation initiatives at the University of Nottingham. “However, to get there, we must push the limits of what is technically possible.”

A new hub for hydrogen propulsion research

Central to this novel research is the university’s new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion systems facility housing several specialized laboratories. Each of these laboratories will play a crucial role in developing the new propulsion system.

The facility’s cryogenics lab will focus on creating low-temperature environments to boost electrical system efficiencies. Researchers can test megawatt-scale fuel cells in conjunction with battery and motor systems in an altitude environment.

These physical labs will be complemented by a digital twinning lab, where engineers can optimize designs and operational performance through advanced simulations.

This new facility builds upon the university’s existing strengths in electrification research, particularly its Power Electronics and Machines Centre (PEMC), which boasts one of the world’s largest groups of researchers in this field.

Unlocking hydrogen’s potential

Cryogenic technology is another crucial component of the research program.

The team believes that their research will solve the need for compact, high-energy fuel storage. This lack of viable storage has been a major obstacle preventing hydrogen-powered flight from becoming a reality. If cooled to extremely low temperatures, hydrogen can be stored in a liquid form where its energy density is much higher.

The University of Nottingham’s Power Electronics, Machines, and Control (PEMC) research group will spearhead the development of both, the full motor design and cryogenic inverter technology.

These advancements are essential for creating high-power, efficient propulsion systems capable of powering the next generation of aircraft.

“Thanks to our new propulsion research infrastructure on campus, industry can co-locate, research, prototype, automate, and manufacture the new solutions they need to future-proof their business,” Professor Gerada highlighted in a statement.

“As a result, we can accelerate the economic prosperity of the East Midlands, the home of green industries and advanced manufacturing.”

The initiative was officially unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 where it captured the attention of industry leaders and policymakers alike.