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Hydrogen powertrains technologies for submarines
Published on 18 November 2021
Italy
Lazio
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About this good practice
The propulsion system of the U212 Submarines in AIP is based on an integration of batteries and Fuel Cells fed with Hydrogen presently stored in Metal Hydrides. The Far Seas PNRM (Piano Nazionale di Ricerca Militare – National Plan of Military Research) project, just completed, was focused on the study of optimized solutions for extending submarines operating range. Since 2011, DIMA coordinated the research group, including Fincantieri SpA. Several analyses were carried out. In particular, the analysis was focused on: hydrogen-rich fuel reforming (alcohols, natural gas, refined diesel fuels); innovative fuel cells solutions (Direct Methanol Fuel Cells); use of pressurized tanks for hydrogen storage, aiming at increasing the gravimetric density of metal hydrides.
The skills and capabilities of DIMA research staff are complemented with an extensive laboratory activity devoted to the development of new membranes for low temperature fuel cells and electrolysers. DIMA has developed these laboratory equipments (e.g. innovative membranes production, lab scale test bench with programmable DC power supply, online on-board data acquisition systems).
The skills and capabilities of DIMA research staff are complemented with an extensive laboratory activity devoted to the development of new membranes for low temperature fuel cells and electrolysers. DIMA has developed these laboratory equipments (e.g. innovative membranes production, lab scale test bench with programmable DC power supply, online on-board data acquisition systems).
Resources needed
One Associate Professor, one Assistant Professor, two Post Docs, 2 Ph.D. students and a number of M.Sc. candidates. All participants devoted 33% of their research time to this activity. The Associate Professor devoted 20%.
DIMA spent more than 300 k€ for laboratory equipment and materials.
DIMA spent more than 300 k€ for laboratory equipment and materials.
Evidence of success
3 Phases of PNRM funded (2 Million € in total).
The integrated propulsion system was verified and alternative configurations (use of methanol, different fuel cells) were discussed. The best operating conditions for a convenient use of such innovative configurations were assessed.
The integrated propulsion system was verified and alternative configurations (use of methanol, different fuel cells) were discussed. The best operating conditions for a convenient use of such innovative configurations were assessed.
Potential for learning or transfer
The development of innovative solution in the submarine propulsion (especially storage and hybrid powertrains) can be successfully extended to other mobility solutions. Safety issues will be advantageously implemented in shipping and railways applications as well as heavy transportation (especially considering vibrations, crossing of tunnels or other hazardous area).
Good practice owner
Organisation
Rome Sapienza University-Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMA)
Italy
Lazio
Contact
employee