As the world moves toward sustainable aviation, hydrogen-powered propulsion systems are emerging as a promising alternative to conventional fuels. A key challenge in this transition is efficient and safe hydrogen storage. Within the TRIATHLON project, Work Package 2 (WP2) is dedicated to developing innovative multi-state hydrogen storage systems that use gaseous, liquid, and cryo-compressed hydrogen. The goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and reduce weight and cost, while employing advanced, leak-tolerant composite materials for lighter and more reliable storage solutions.
Achievements So Far
During the first year, key progress was made: crucial boundary conditions for the multi-state storage system were defined, and hydrogen discharge from a cryo-compressed tank was successfully simulated for a typical flight mission. A generic wall design for an all-composite CcH2 vessel was developed, and experiments on crack formation and gas leakage laid the groundwork for leak-tolerant composites. Additionally, test rigs for cryogenic material characterisation were conceptualised at the Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology (ILK), TU Dresden.
Building on this foundation, during the project’s second year, X-ray imaging of cryogenically cycled material samples has been successfully tested to study internal damage after thermal cycling. The cryogenic test rig has been fully assembled and commissioned, with thermal conductivity testing now underway, enabling realistic evaluation of materials under cryogenic conditions.
Progress & Milestone
A major milestone was achieved on December 16, 2025, with the successful commissioning of the cryogenic test rig at ILK / TU Dresden. During the first cooldown test, conducted with project coordinator Julien van Campen from TU Delft, the rig reached a temperature of 12 K, marking an important step toward testing materials for cryo-compressed hydrogen storage under realistic operating conditions.
Looking Ahead
In 2026, a full test campaign is planned to study LM-PAEK composites, a promising material for high-performance hydrogen storage. Cryogenic cycling and CT scanning will be used to link crack development to gas permeability, supporting the development of safer and leak-tolerant storage systems for future hydrogen-powered aviation.
Stay tuned and follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates on TRIATHLON project activities. Exciting developments are coming in 2026 — you won’t want to miss them!