NLR aims to achieve manned flight on liquid hydrogen in the near future. To make this possible, NLR will modify its electric-powered research aircraft, the Pipistrel Velis Electro, to include a hydrogen propulsion system. In December 2024, NLR took a significant step by partnering with zepp.solutions to develop a fuel cell system that can convert hydrogen into electrical energy. For hydrogen storage, NLR has now also partnered with Cryoworld, a Dutch SME. This company from Wieringerwerf has extensive experience and knowledge in cryogenic technology. The collaboration with NLR focuses on their expertise in storage, distribution, and conditioning of liquid hydrogen.
Liquid Hydrogen
Flying on liquid hydrogen is considered a promising technology that can contribute to the aviation industry’s climate goals. With high energy density as an advantage, there are numerous challenges for the integration of liquid hydrogen systems on board an aircraft, in addition to weight, volume, and safety. For example, storing cryogenic hydrogen at -253 degrees Celsius requires excellent insulation of the tank to limit losses due to evaporation. Furthermore, the very cold hydrogen must be warmed up for use by a fuel cell. Several technical solutions are possible and are being investigated.
The tank system that Cryoworld will develop will be integrated into the Pipistrel. This small electric aircraft provides NLR with the opportunity to demonstrate innovative technologies.
Sustainable aviation
The new collaboration between NLR and Cryoworld gives substance to a shared focus on taking concrete steps towards sustainable aviation within the Dutch aviation ecosystem. It contributes to the showcase of the NLR programme ‘Climate-Neutral Aviation‘, which focuses on the development of innovative and sustainable technologies with the goal of making aviation climate-neutral by 2050.
This research is being partially conducted within the research and innovation programme ‘Aviation in Transition’ (LiT), which is co-funded by the National Growth Fund of the Dutch government.
