Swedish Start-up Launches Graphene Solution to Enhance Hydrogen Storage
Graphmatech has launched its AROS Polyamide-Graphene composites, which are reported to reduce hydrogen leakage by 83% compared to traditional commercial storage solutions.
The graphene-enhanced material will be dedicated to hydrogen storage and transport applications. Graphmatech expects the solution to be implemented in approximately 1,000 light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and 500 heavy commercial vehicles by 2027.
The composite combines polyamide grades with graphene, “effectively blocking hydrogen from escaping while also making the plastic stronger.” H2 View understands that the material is suited for type IV composite pressure vessels (CPVs).
Additionally, the start-up secured SEK 10m ($947,000) from the Swedish Energy Agency to support the development and deployment of a modular mobile pilot-scale extrusion line for Graphmatech’s polymer graphene materials designed for hydrogen applications.
Specifically, AROS Polyamide-6 Graphene will not only reduce leakages by up to 83%, but also demonstrate a 98% increase in tensile modulus and 38% higher ultimate strength compared to commercial solutions.
Furthermore, just a small amount (4%) of AROS Polyamide-11 Graphene can reduce hydrogen permeability by 68%, increase elongation by 160% and enhance impact resistance by 12% at room temperature.
With just under $1m secured, the Uppsala University spin-out can develop, test, demonstrate and certify type-IV pressure vessels for hydrogen storage and pipes for hydrogen transportation.
The project aims to verify the innovative and modular extrusion line at a pilot scale under full operating conditions.
“The range of AROS Polyamide-Graphene composites exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable innovation,” explained Dr. Mamoun Taher, Founder and Chief Technical Officer of Graphmatech.
“By infusing traditional materials with the ‘miracle’ properties of graphene, we’re enabling a new era of safer, more efficient hydrogen infrastructure that can significantly reduce CO2 emissions on a ‘global scale.’
“As a deep-tech for climate startup, we’ve not only solved the challenge of graphene commercialisation but also removed risk in its industrial adoption.
“With the AROS Polyamide-Graphene composites and the support of the Swedish Energy Agency, we’re providing multiple sectors with the tools to future-proof their operations, enhance productivity and strive for true sustainability.”
Read the original article on H2 View.