With hydrogen continuing to emerge as a sustainable energy solution, we need to find innovative solutions to current challenges and risks associated with hydrogen transmission, storage, and distribution infrastructure.
John Curtin Distinguished Professor in Physics and Astronomy, Craig Buckley, is recognised internationally for his work on energy storage, in particular hydrogen storage and conversion. Craig leads the Hydrogen Research Storage Group (HRSG), which has a hydrogen permeability rig and access to cutting-edge facilities for thin film physical deposition (sputtering) on various substrates, film characterisation using profilometry, and surface analysis employing electron, X-ray, and optical microscopy at the John de Laeter Centre (JdLC) at Curtin University.
“The transportation of hydrogen to consumers poses a significant challenge, and the current gas distribution and transmission network in Australia presents a potential solution. However, there are concerns regarding the compatibility of materials used in gas transport with hydrogen and the feasibility of repurposing the current network for hydrogen transport.” – Prof Craig Buckley.
Cadoux Limited, an emerging developer of high-quality critical minerals, has connected with the Curtin HRSG Laboratory through the Trailblazer program to undertake a project looking at candidate materials for manufacturing hydrogen barriers for pipelines and storage tank transmission and distribution infrastructure.
This collaborative project holds the potential to develop a solution that will enable safe and economic storage and transport of hydrogen. Commercialisation of new hydrogen-focussed technology will support the hydrogen supply chain, opening up new capability and activating investment in Australian hydrogen technology and expertise.
Trailblazer funding will directly support a new Research Fellow to lead the project. This new appointment will bring in additional experience and expertise to the HRSG team. The funding will also enable set-up and commissioning of new, specialized testing equipment on the Curtin Bentley campus.
“Cadoux is proud to collaborate with Curtin University through the Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer program. This strategic partnership aims to bolster Curtin’s formidable capabilities in conducting industry-critical research in energy storage systems. Through our joint efforts, we aspire to identify and develop effective solutions that possess the potential for commercialisation, thereby making significant strides towards the decarbonisation of renewable energy storage. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices and contributing to the evolution of the energy landscape.” Raj Kandiah, Chief Commercial Officer.
The project will require extensive use of the facilities in the JdLC, the HSRG and the Carbon Group laboratories at Curtin.
This project encourages the translation and commercialisation of university research towards Australia’s National Manufacturing Priorities. It demonstrates industry-university collaboration, and opens up access to technical, design and engineering capabilities required to bring new technologies to market, ultimately delivering economies of scale to de-risk new technology enabling value creation for the nation.
