Austrian Liquid Hydrogen
Tank System Technologies
“Hydrogen has the potential to be a transformative energy source for aviation.”
Austrian Flagship Research Project funded by FFG
Motivation
Hydrogen is considered as a key technology for achieving the EU’s climate goals, especially in hard-to-decarbonise sectors such as aviation.
Liquid hydrogen (LH₂) offers a significantly higher energy density than gaseous hydrogen, making it one of the most promising storage solutions for future aircraft.
At the same time, integrating LH₂ into aviation presents major technological challenges. Storage systems must be lightweight, safe, scalable, and capable of withstanding cryogenic temperatures and demanding flight conditions.
According to EU strategies and recent studies, hydrogen-powered propulsion systems could enable a substantial share of regional and short-haul flights in Europe by 2050.
Goals of AUTARK
Lightweight and
Efficient Tank Systems
Improving the gravimetric index of a double-layer, vacuum-insulated aluminium tank from 28% to 35% through the use of cost-efficient light alloys, advanced manufacturing methods, and innovative joining technologies.
Safety and
Operational Reliability
Enhancing knowledge of safety-related operational events through detailed simulations to support the development of safe Type I LH₂ storage and distribution systems.
Advanced Manufacturing
Technologies
Developing expertise in the manufacturing of resource-efficient light-metal inner tank structures, lightweight valves, cold boxes, and safety venting systems for cryogenic LH₂ applications.
Impact
By achieving these goals, AUTARK strengthens Austrian research and industrial partners and supports their positioning as leading innovators in hydrogen aviation technologies and LH₂ storage systems for future aircraft.
