CLAH2RENH3CE: hydrogen and ammonia for sustainable aviation
Edair is working with Sofitec and Indaero Grupo Emergy on the development of an innovative storage system that is reaching a TRL4 maturity level
One of the greatest challenges facing aviation powered by light gases is the difficulty of storing them at high pressures. Thus, the consortium formed by Edairtec, Sofitec, and Indaero Grupo Emergy is developing an innovative hydrogen and ammonia storage system. The project, sponsored by the CDTI and the Ministry of Science and Innovation, has the technical support of CATEC, CTA, CT Engineering, the University of Seville, and the Polytechnic University of Valencia.
The CLAH2RENH3CE project contemplates the use of composite materials in out-of-autoclave processes and additive manufacturing, allowing for a scalable and adaptable design. CLAH2RENH3CE has been conceived to fit a wide range of aircraft. Thus, the innovation is moving toward sustainable aviation whose main byproducts will be water and nitrogen. Edairtec's essential contribution is the design and execution of the structural tests for CLAH2RENH3CE.
Simulated environment based on winches
The mechanical tests for the CLAH2RENH3CE storage system involve exposing the tanks to various loads. To achieve this, Edairtec configured a structure equipped with winches that generate these forces. Edairtec has created a solid foundation upon which to progress with possible expansions of the project.
Future stages of development contemplate improving the use of the winch technology for the introduction of loads by modifying the nature of their electric motors to smooth the advance of the winches. This aims to introduce loads slowly and controlled with greater reliability and stability, and without the presence of undesirable load peaks.
Satisfactory results at CTA
In the execution of the test, the planned load conditions were reached, and difficulties that arose during the process were resolved on the fly. Regarding the innovative part of the test carried out by Edairtec—the use of winches for load introduction—the desired technology level of TRL4 is considered achieved.
CLAH2RENCE is moving towards sustainable, zero-emission aviation. This work was made possible by the collaboration of various companies and technological institutions under the umbrella and funding of the CDTI. Sustainable aviation is no longer a distant goal but a tangible reality, capable of redefining the sector and opening the way to a new, emissions-free era.
Project financed by the CDTI and the Next Generation EU Funds of the European Union.
