The H2TALIII project is working on a new Type III hydrogen storage tank and on the development of elastomeric coatings to prevent hydrogen embrittlement
The development of hydrogen as an energy carrier poses new technological challenges related to its high-pressure storage. In this context, CIDETEC Surface Engineering is participating in H2TALIII, an R&D project aimed at developing advanced solutions to improve the performance and durability of tanks intended for hydrogen storage, with a clear focus on their future industrial application.
The project, supported by the Basque Government’s Hazitek programme and co-funded by the European Union, is being carried out in collaboration with Beugin Garay, Calderería Iturralde and Argolabe Ingeniería. The consortium is working on the development of a new Type III hydrogen storage tank featuring a metallic inner liner and an outer composite, addressing different aspects related to materials, design and manufacturing.
One of the main technological challenges lies in the interaction between hydrogen and metallic materials. Under certain conditions, hydrogen can penetrate the metal and promote hydrogen embrittlement phenomena, which can affect its properties and the integrity of the component. To address this challenge, the project is investigating the use of elastomeric coatings as a barrier against hydrogen permeation.
In this development, CIDETEC Surface Engineering contributes its expertise in surface engineering, materials development and coating characterisation, helping to evaluate and optimise the performance of these solutions. The work includes characterising the properties of the materials and assessing their ability to limit hydrogen diffusion, with the aim of progressively moving towards validation under representative service conditions.
Beyond technological demonstration, H2TALIII starts from an initial technology readiness level with the aim of progressing towards an industrialisable and scalable solution. This approach will lay the foundations for its application in pressurised hydrogen storage systems and, potentially, in areas such as sustainable mobility, where high-pressure tanks are a key component.
CIDETEC Surface Engineering’s participation in H2TALIII reinforces the role of surface engineering and advanced materials as enabling technologies for the energy transition, helping to move R&D developments from the laboratory towards solutions with potential industrial applications.
