The development of the hydrogen economy in Europe requires not only new technologies for hydrogen production and storage but also safe and durable transport infrastructure. In this context, the international MITHRIL project (Development of permeation barrier coatings for steels in hydrogen applications) is being carried out, with the Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology (Łukasiewicz – GIT) participating as a partner. The project has received funding from the European Commission under the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (RFCS).
Why Steel Coatings Are Crucial?
Although hydrogen is a clean and promising fuel for the future, it can cause hydrogen embrittlement in steel, which is used in pipelines and transport systems. The MITHRIL project focuses on developing barrier coatings that limit hydrogen permeation into steel, enabling safe and cost-effective hydrogen transport. Research includes diamond-like carbon (DLC), nickel-phosphorus (Ni-P), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) coatings.
From Research to Industry
The project aims to create coatings with suitable mechanical properties that are durable and industrially applicable. Initially, the research focuses on the transport sector, with subsequent studies examining potential applications in hydrogen storage, automotive, and nuclear energy, where materials are exposed to high pressures and temperatures.
International Collaboration
The MITHRIL project is carried out by a consortium comprising leading research and industrial institutions from eight European countries:
- RINA CONSULTING – Centro Sviluppo Materiali SPA (Italy) – project coordinator
- Flame Spray Hungary (Hungary)
- University of Ghent (Belgium)
- Il Sentiero International Campus SRL (Italy)
- Łukasiewicz Research Network – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology (Poland)
- Corinth Pipeworks Pipe Industry SA (Greece)
- Fundación Tekniker (Spain)
- University of Cagliari (Italy)
The project leader at Łukasiewicz – GIT is Krzysztof Radwański, DEng, PhD, DSc.
The total project budget amounts to €3,936,357.70, with the Łukasiewicz – GIT budget of €499,864.50.
Project Impact
Through MITHRIL, technologies are being developed that enhance the safety, durability, and efficiency of hydrogen infrastructure, supporting the energy transition and the growth of a low-emission economy in Europe. The project demonstrates how scientific research and international collaboration can translate into tangible industrial innovations.
