Purpose of the Innovation Platform
Given the urgency posed by climate change, the search for alternative energy sources is becoming increasingly pressing. Hydrogen is recognized as a promising, clean, and versatile energy carrier. Overall, hydrogen research and the development of new technologies are crucial to fully exploit the potential of this renewable energy source. Addressing the extensive research needs across the entire value chain is essential to replace currently emission-intensive industrial processes with hydrogen technologies in the future. The WAVE-H2 innovation platform aims to tackle these challenges. To fully showcase the potential of these technologies, individual system components of the hydrogen value chain must be interactively examined together. This approach is necessary to identify the influences of dynamic behaviors of these components on the overall process, thus optimizing operations. The operational focus of the planned innovation platform will involve researching processes and technologies with Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) ranging from laboratory-scale to pilot-scale. By bridging the gap between science and application, the platform aims to enhance technology transfer and contribute to closing the loop in hydrogen research and development. Therefore, the primary purpose of the innovation platform is research.
Structure of the Innovation Platform
The WAVE-H2 innovation platform will be established on the Vaihingen campus, west of ARENA 2036. The research infrastructure of the innovation modules is organized into several specialized test centers, each dedicated to addressing specific challenges in energy research and developing innovative solutions.
Electrolysis and Fuel Cell Test Center
The Electrolysis and Fuel Cell Test Center focuses on the research and development of galvanic cells for electrolysis and fuel cells. Specifically, it investigates the conversion of electrical energy into chemically bonded energy and vice versa. Research areas include aging tests, mass transport, temperature distribution, and cell degradation mechanisms.
Solid-to-H₂ and Bivalent Production Test Center
The Solid-to-H₂ and Bivalent Production Test Center is dedicated to alternative energy supply and storage concepts, particularly focusing on processes hydrogen storage and release. Research focuses on methods for generating hydrogen from solids and chemical hydrogen storage such as ammonia and liquid organic carriers. The center also investigates gas conversions, such as biogas reforming, to enhance energy resource efficiency and promote sustainability.
H₂-to-CH₄ Test Center
The H₂-to-CH₄ Test Center specializes in developing plasma reactors utilizing innovative technology for CO₂ splitting. This pioneering technology originated from the BMWi-funded PlasmaFuel project. Additionally, the center explores other gas conversions, such as biogas reforming, to improve the efficiency and sustainability of energy resources.
Our modular construction ensures not only efficient implementation and flexibility in use but also enables rapid adaptation. Each test center is specifically tailored to the needs of its respective research fields, providing ideal conditions for pioneering research and development.
Learn more about our groundbreaking approaches and technological breakthroughs in energy research. Contact us for further details on our partnerships and collaboration opportunities.
