Novel Insulation Concepts For LH2 Storage Tanks

The NICOLHy project aims to develop novel insulation concepts based on Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) that enables the safe, cost- and energy efficient storage of large quantities of LH2.

New design concepts are needed because the current technologies used in small and medium storages today are not suitable for up-scaling since would imply prohibitive costs, long construction time, low failure tolerance and limitation on tank shape selection.

To overcome this challenge, NICOLHy will utilize for the first time the VIP thermal insulation principle for LH2 storage.

The project objectives will be achieved by applying a holistic approach by investigating material, safety, energy and economic aspects through both modelling and testing of the insulation. Analysis of circularity, sustainability, and scalability of the whole LH2 tank system will be conducted.

The NICOLHy consortium, which brings together experts from different fields and disciplines is ideally suited for this ambitious project.

Recent results from NICOLHy project partners indicate that this insulation principle is successfully applicable to storing large quantities of LH2 leading to decreasing storage costs and safety and energy efficiency enhancement. Other advantages compared to existing solutions are the reduced construction time and the increasing failure tolerance.

NICOLHy will develop further the preliminary evaluated modular and open-form insulation applicable for onshore and offshore LH2 tank applications.

The validation of this new insulation concept will enable the design of cost-efficient large-scale LH2 storage tanks with minimal LH2 boil-off.

Thereby, NICOLHy will accelerate the integration of hydrogen into the European energy economy and industry, which is necessary to be in line with the European Green Deal and to keep confidence of the population in the policy and the technology.