IAAPS successfully runs hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine

12 February 2024

IAAPS engineers have reached a significant breakthrough, having successfully run an automotive Internal Combustion Engine on hydrogen for the first time. This was possible through the utilisation of green hydrogen generated by IAAPS’ own in-house green H2 power plant.

This development marks a milestone in IAAPS' ongoing efforts to advance hydrogen technologies and plays a vital role in steering the wider transport industry towards sustainable propulsion systems.

The hydrogen used was produced on-site by IAAPS' state-of-the-art green hydrogen power plant. The process involves the use of an electrolyser to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, with the hydrogen then harnessed for combustion in the engine.

The breakthrough holds great promise for future projects within the R&I facility and the broader industry. IAAPS, recognised as one of the leading lights in pioneering hydrogen technologies, is already involved in a number of other ambitious initiatives that will capitalise on this achievement.

Dr. Karl Giles, Principal Engineer at IAAPS and Project Lead, expressed his excitement about the successful implementation of hydrogen as a viable fuel source. "This result underscores IAAPS' dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the automotive industry. The ability to burn hydrogen safely in an internal combustion engine not only demonstrates the technical feasibility, but also brings us one step closer to a future where hydrogen-powered vehicles could play a crucial role in achieving sustainable transportation."

This was mirrored by Professor Rob Oliver, Engineering Director at IAAPS, who emphasised the importance of this project in the context of the global push towards net-zero emissions. "This successful outcome is testament to IAAPS' unwavering commitment to sustainable propulsion systems. As we continue to innovate, we are actively contributing to the global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. This breakthrough not only opens new doors for the transport industry but also reinforces our role as leaders in advancing technologies that will drive us towards a cleaner, greener future."

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