The US Department of Energy has awarded Texas A&M engineers a grant to develop advanced materials for hydrogen gas turbines. Consequently, this innovative project aims to create more efficient and environmentally friendly turbines.
Since the 1884 invention of the multi-stage steam turbine by Charles Parson, power generation technology has evolved significantly. Today, it focuses on developing turbines using hydrogen fuel instead of natural gas. Dr. Don Lipkin, principal investigator, notes, “The United States aims to decarbonize energy by 2035, requiring materials solutions for advanced gas turbines that are cleaner and more efficient.”
The project involves designing high-performance alloys, protective coatings, and cooling systems for hydrogen-fired turbines. Additionally, these turbines convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, with blades attached to a central shaft. Furthermore, the goal is to replace natural gas with hydrogen, minimizing carbon footprint.
However, this poses two significant challenges. Firstly, Lipkin explains, “Efficient turbines need to operate at temperatures above 3000°F, and we require materials solutions for these hotter regimes.” Secondly, burning hydrogen produces more steam than natural gas, accelerating material distress.
Currently, turbines use nickel-based superalloys, which melt at 2400°F. In contrast, researchers are exploring refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) with melting temperatures above 3500°F. Dr. Raymundo Arróyave identified promising RHEAs under the ULTIMATE program.
Texas A&M engineers are pioneering Hydrogen Turbine Technology advancements. By developing RHEAs with tailored coatings, they aim to overcome extreme environmental challenges. Moreover, Lipkin’s team will test RHEAs in simulated hydrogen gas turbine environments.
In addition, they’ll investigate the resilience of the RHEA materials system, including substrate alloy, oxidation-resistant coating, and thermal barrier coating. Ultimately, Hydrogen Turbine Technology holds significant potential for reducing carbon emissions.
Lipkin emphasizes, “Switching to hydrogen fuel can meet our carbon reduction goals in the energy sector.” Therefore, the project’s success relies on advanced alloy design tools and experimental setups.
With Hydrogen Turbine Technology, the US moves closer to achieving its decarbonization goals.
