Cranfield University will spearhead the research and development of the first major hydrogen technology hub to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as a net zero aviation fuel, the University announced.
The £69 million investment creating the Cranfield Hydrogen Integration Incubator (CH2i) is the largest financial injection for research that Cranfield University has ever secured. £23 million comes from Research England’s Research Partnership Investment Fund (UKRPIF), with a further £46 million committed from industry partners and academic institutions.
CH2i will include three large infrastructure elements:
1. Hydrogen Integration Research Centre – extending an existing facility, this will include new labs for advanced materials synthesis and testing for hydrogen-based technologies, analytical laboratories and a dedicated innovation area to develop next generation hydrogen pilot plant demonstration, electrolysis, catalyst development and green hydrogen.
2. Enabling Hydrogen Innovation (Test Area) – investment into two separate test bed facilities, able to support hydrogen and liquid hydrogen activity, fuel systems, storage and propulsion system integration at mid- and high-technology readiness levels.
3. Development of Cranfield Airport’s infrastructure, increasing its capability for safe operation and testing of future demonstrator hydrogen-powered aviation.
The funding will also provide new equipment, project management and staffing to support the project.
Photo of Cranfield University
Press release https://shorturl.at/mrwGQ
