Hydrogen storage systems for automotive applications: project StorHy

Around two thirds of world's oil usage is associated with transportation with road vehicles consuming around 40%. Also, transportation accounts for around 25% of greenhouse emissions worldwide, with around 90% coming from road vehicles. This situation is further complicated by the fact that oil reserves are running out. For this reason, the automotive industry supported by relevant governing bodies is rapidly exploring alternative propulsion solutions (such as hybrid, electric and hydrogen powered vehicle technologies). This paper presents the main objectives and progressive findings of an EU funded research project titled 'StorHy ? Hydrogen Storage Systems for Automotive Applications'. This research project was conducted in partnership between a number of participating organisations under the auspice of the EU Thematic Priority 6 program titled 'Sustainable development, global change and ecosystems'. The integrated project, StorHy, aims to develop robust, safe and efficient on-board vehicle hydrogen storage systems suitable for use in hydrogen-fuelled fuel cell or internal combustion engine vehicles. Research work covering the whole spectrum of hydrogen storage technologies (compressed gas, cryogenic liquid and solid materials) is carried out with a focus on automotive applications. The aim is to develop economically and environmentally attractive solutions for all three storage technologies.