Development of technologies for hydrogen liquefaction: modeling, simulation and optimization

• Grant number: 24/18414-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Program to Stimulate Scientific Vocations
• Start date: January 27, 2025
• End date: March 18, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Thermal Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Jaime Andres Lozano Cadena
• Grantee: Ana Lima Vieira
• Host Institution: Centro Tecnológico. Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC). Ministério da Educação (Brasil). Florianópolis , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The decarbonization of the energy chain is essential to mitigate climate change, and hydrogen plays a key role in this transition. Used in mobility, energy storage, and various industries, hydrogen faces significant challenges in its production chain, especially in storage and transportation. Hydrogen liquefaction, although feasible, is energy-intensive and comes with high costs. This project aims to develop emerging technologies for hydrogen liquefaction, focusing on conventional mechanical vapor compression cycles and innovative systems such as magnetic refrigeration. Initially, numerical models will be developed to simulate the liquefaction cycles, followed by the application of genetic algorithms to optimize components and operating conditions. The intern will assist in data collection and analysis, the creation of simple numerical models, and the literature review on liquefaction methods and magnetic refrigeration. They will also participate in the simulation of liquefaction cycles using specific software, under supervision. The thermodynamic performance of the solutions will be evaluated considering liquefaction capacity, power consumption, initial investment, and operating costs. The goal is to reduce liquefaction costs, making hydrogen more competitive for large-scale storage and transportation, contributing to the decarbonization of the energy matrix and meeting global climate targets.