Hydrogen experts join Cryogenics Conference from the HCN
Over 150 research and industry experts gathered in London for a Cryogenic Hydrogen Research Conference delivered by the ATI’s Hydrogen Capability Network (HCN) in partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority this week.
The first conference with a cryogenics focus from the HCN brought together academics, students and engineers in industry working in the field of cryogenic hydrogen to share knowledge and build a community.
Opening the conference as a keynote speaker, Julia Sutcliffe, Chief Scientific Advisor, Department for Business and Trade shared the potential for hydrogen-powered flight to support the government’s missions for growth and clean energy.
Inviting the audience to grasp the opportunity of hydrogen for aerospace, Julia said: “The UK has a fantastic and unique opportunity to build on already fantastic capability to achieve our climate goals. You are the innovators, engineers and entrepreneurs who will drive success.”
These innovators took centre stage for the afternoon’s breakout sessions which offered delegates the chance to hear presentations from 18 academics, aerospace organisations and research organisations across the three themes of thermofluids, health and safety and materials.
The second keynote address came from Jacob Leachman Professor at the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University and Director of the HYPER Center which he established in 2010 with the mission of working with hydrogen safely so that others can too.
Jacob shared how hydrogen has been integral to engineering breakthroughs since its discovery as a new element in 1766 and how challenging the dogmas can unlock its potential.
An afternoon panel session explored the challenges of balancing supply and distribution with demand and the importance of organisations working with hydrogen to understand the physics alongside health and safety requirements.
One regular theme throughout the event was collaboration with speakers and panellists underlining the importance of developing technology, skills, research, policy and certification cohesively. There were also calls for a shared approach to testing standards, health and safety regulations and infrastructure development.
In mid- 2025, the HCN will publish reports on the longer-term strategic interventions required to enable liquid hydrogen powered flight across three areas identified in 2024 as key to securing the UK’s position as a world-leader in hydrogen aircraft technologies; test infrastructure, research and skills.
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Hydrogen experts join Cryogenics Conference from the HCN, source
