ZeroAvia and Verne signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly analyze the feasibility of using cryo-compressed hydrogen (CcH2) on board aircraft.
The company ZeroAvia is developing a propulsion system that uses hydrogen as a source of energy. It can be used in all types of aircraft. The engines use hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which is then used to power electric motors that rotate the aircraft’s propellers. The only emission is water. Verne, on the other hand, is a startup that researches the use of cryo-compressed hydrogen, which stores gaseous hydrogen at low temperatures. This increases the fuel density, which could allow for greater range compared to aircraft powered by gaseous hydrogen.
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According to Verne, CcH2 can achieve a density 40 percent higher than liquid hydrogen and 200 percent higher than gaseous hydrogen at 350 bars. Additionally, it promises to significantly reduce densification costs and recharge time, and possibly eliminate purging as an overpressure management mechanism.
Through the MoU, ZeroAvia and Verne will assess the benefits of scaling the CcH2 storage and refueling infrastructure at airports worldwide. They will also collaborate to develop a model for airports in California, where the first systems will be installed. Verne has developed large hydrogen storage systems with a capacity of 4 MWh.
Sergey Kiselev, Chief Commercial Officer of ZeroAvia, stated, «With our engines just a couple of years away from transporting passengers and cargo, it is important for us to find optimal solutions to support the hydrogen ecosystem at airports. Increasing storage capacity and recharge speed through innovative technologies is a crucial avenue for expanding hydrogen aviation.» Meanwhile, Ted McKlveen, CEO and Co-founder of Verne, added, «Aviation holds massive potential for Verne. Hydrogen is essential for addressing the climate impact of the industry.»
