Materials for Hydrogen Applications
The EERC is developing a method for joining very high-temperature alloys to make critical parts of future hydrogen-fueled turbines and hydrogen systems. Construction of turbines with structurally sensitive alloys will allow turbines to operate at much higher temperatures and burn gases containing variable amounts of hydrogen. The industry partner on this work is Siemens Power Generation.

  • Many hydrogen applications require advanced materials that provide high-temperature tolerance, increased strength, and improved corrosion resistance.
  • Traditional welding cannot be used to join this family of alloys.
  • Initial joints are stronger than the original material.
Silicon Carbide Structures

A proprietary method of making silicon carbide structures was developed by the EERC for use in advanced energy systems. Originally developed for use in fossil energy systems, the material also has shown promise for spin-off applications such as meteoroid or heat shields for spacecraft and ballistic armor and ballistic armor for bullet-proof vests and vehicles. Eight coupons have been included in the Materials International Space Station Experiment; six were launched aboard the space shuttle Endeavour and installed on the International Space Station in March 2008. The coupons returned to Earth in the fall of 2009.