With the opening of the 'Energy to Propulsion Test Facility' (EPTF), NLR now has a unique, modularly built test facility, to conduct research. Currently, the focus is on hydrogen-electric aircraft propulsion. The new facility offers start-ups, SMEs and industrial partners optimal conditions to test complex innovations in this field safely and thoroughly. In doing so, NLR contributes to accelerating the sustainability of aviation.
Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) has officially inaugurated the Energy to Propulsion Test Facility (EPTF) in Marknesse. The facility enables NLR to adequately and quickly evaluate new propulsion technologies, including hydrogen-electric, for aerospace applications with high-quality test capabilities.
Hydrogen as a promising route to sustainability
The European Union aims for climate neutrality by 2050. This means a substantial reduction of CO₂ emissions, also in the transport sector. NLR is therefore investing in research into hydrogen as an alternative fuel for aircraft. For long-haul flights, sustainable jet fuel (SAF) remains the most suitable sustainability route for the time being. But for the majority of global flights - 95% go no further than 4,000 kilometres and together account for half of CO₂ emissions - other solutions are possible.
Battery-electric aircraft
"For the shortest routes, with few passengers, battery-electric aircraft open up new opportunities for mobility," says Martin Nagelsmit, CTO of NLR. "For the regional segment, up to a maximum of 2,000 kilometres, hydrogen-electric aircraft offer a promising solution. And for distances up to around 4,000 kilometres, hydrogen combustion is a promising option for most of the single-aisle fleet. That kind of aircraft is used, for example, on busier flights within Europe, or to destinations in North Africa."
For the shortest routes, with few passengers, battery-electric aircraft open up new opportunities for mobilityMartin Nagelsmit, CTO of NLR
EPTF is unique facility within Europe
The EPTF makes it possible to extensively test the entire powertrain of a hydrogen-electric aircraft - or parts of it. It is the first facility in Europe where hydrogen as an energy carrier can be so integrally researched, and which is also accessible to external parties.
Much research needed
Paul Arendsen, manager of NLR's Structures and Evaluation Department and responsible for the EPTF: "Gaseous hydrogen is light, but too bulky. Compressed gas needs too heavy storage tanks. For aircraft, liquid hydrogen is therefore the best option. But cooling it to minus 253 °C - almost absolute zero - poses significant technical challenges. What happens to propulsion components and materials under such extreme conditions? And how do lightweight, composite storage tanks behave at those temperatures? A lot of research still needs to be done on that."
Safety first
Safety is crucial in aviation, and so is the new facility in Marknesse. "Hydrogen is a non-toxic, colourless and odourless gas at room temperature. Provided it is stored and used safely, it is no more dangerous than other fuels," Arendsen said. "The EPTF is equipped with extensive safety measures and we follow strict procedures. Think of limitation of ignition risks, ample ventilation openings and ample distance between components. Everything is set up for safe testing."
EPTF offers opportunities for companies
Flying on green hydrogen offers great opportunities, but also significant technological and operational challenges - while time is running out. With the EPTF, NLR aims to support start-ups, SMEs and industrial partners in seizing economic opportunities. By being able to test reliable, safe and validated hydrogen solutions faster, the step to market introduction is shortened and innovations can contribute faster to our societal goals.
Source: NLR
Opening photo: 'Energy to Propulsion Test Facility' (EPTF): Moving test platform Generic Research Aircraft Component Environment (GRACE) with a composite tank on top.
Photo 2: Test setup Hydrogen Fuel Cell Power Train Demonstrator (photo: NLR)
