United Kingdom – In a step towards revolutionizing the aviation industry’s approach to decarbonization, the University of Sheffield is poised to become the leading UK research center for green hydrogen production with the installation of cutting-edge hydrogen electrolysis technology.
This technology, provided by IMI Remosa under the new brand IMI VIVO, employs electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, yielding green hydrogen. The produced hydrogen is set to serve as a cornerstone for research and development of innovative, hydrogen-based sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs).
Installed within the University’s Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre (SAF-IC), the IMI VIVO electrolyser marks a significant milestone. SAF-IC emerges as the UK’s inaugural research and development facility capable of conceiving, testing, validating, and certifying new fuels all under one roof. This cutting-edge hub, alongside the newly incorporated electrolyser, empowers the UK with essential research capabilities in SAFs, playing a pivotal role in curbing aviation’s environmental footprint.
Carbon emissions in aviation
The aviation sector is accountable for approximately seven percent of the UK’s total carbon emissions, with this number on an alarming upward trajectory. Amid the urgency to address climate concerns, sustainable aviation fuels are hailed as a pivotal solution. However, the stringent regulations and standards governing aviation fuels necessitate innovative approaches and rigorous research to meet the necessary benchmarks.
Researchers from the University of Sheffield will collaborate with industry stakeholders to develop new hydrogen and CO2-based fuels that align with aviation standards. This collaborative effort aims to offer cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels, aiding industries across the UK in transitioning towards greener energy sources.
Elevating hydrogen role
The installation of the IMI VIVO electrolyser at the SAF-IC facility propels the University’s green hydrogen production capacity. With the capability to generate nearly 140Nm3 per hour of green hydrogen and a storage capacity equivalent to powering 200 homes, the University is primed to drive crucial research and development initiatives. The SAF-IC facility, nestled within the University of Sheffield Innovation District, serves as a catalyst for economic growth and technological advancement.
