3M and HD Hyundai KSOE to collaborate on joint research project to help insulate liquid hydrogen storage tanks

Rhea-AI Summary

3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE) have signed a joint research project agreement to develop large liquid hydrogen storage tanks using Glass Bubbles from 3M, aiming to enhance the insulation system for liquified hydrogen storage and transportation. This collaboration signifies a significant advancement in the hydrogen technology sector, crucial for the future of clean energy.

Energy Industry Analyst

The collaboration between 3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE) to develop large liquid hydrogen storage tanks is a significant development in the energy sector. The use of 3M's Glass Bubbles for insulation in hydrogen storage is a forward-thinking approach, given the material's thermal efficiency and durability advantages over traditional cryogenic materials. This venture could enable the hydrogen market to overcome one of its biggest hurdles: the efficient and safe storage and transportation of hydrogen at scale.

As the world moves towards cleaner energy solutions, hydrogen is poised to play a pivotal role and advancements in storage technology are crucial for its adoption. The implications for the business landscape are substantial, with potential growth opportunities in the clean energy market. Moreover, the partnership may catalyze further innovation and investment in the sector, potentially leading to increased demand for specialized shipping vessels and infrastructure.

The strategic collaboration also indicates a trend towards cross-industry partnerships to tackle complex technological challenges. It exemplifies how materials science is integral to advancing energy storage solutions and underscores the importance of insulation performance in the viability of hydrogen as a widely used energy carrier.

Materials Science Expert

3M's Glass Bubbles represent a technological innovation in the field of advanced materials, offering a unique solution to the challenges of liquid hydrogen storage. Glass Bubbles are hollow glass microspheres that provide high strength while maintaining low density, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of storage tanks under extreme cryogenic conditions. The material's properties could significantly enhance the thermal insulation performance of hydrogen tanks, reducing the risk of hydrogen evaporation and energy loss.

From a materials science perspective, the application of Glass Bubbles in vacuum insulation systems could set a new industry standard if proven successful. This would not only improve the efficiency of liquid hydrogen storage and transport but could also lead to broader applications of the material in other areas requiring advanced thermal management solutions.

Market Research Analyst

The joint research project between 3M and HD Hyundai is indicative of the growing market for hydrogen fuel technologies and the need for supporting infrastructure. With the global push for decarbonization, the demand for hydrogen as an energy source is expected to rise and the development of efficient storage solutions is key to unlocking its potential. This collaboration has the potential to position both companies as leaders in the hydrogen storage market, which is still in its nascent stages but has significant growth potential.

Investors and stakeholders in the clean energy and materials science sectors should monitor the progress of this joint venture closely. The success of the project could lead to early mover advantages in the hydrogen market and the resulting technologies could become industry benchmarks. Additionally, the partnership could stimulate further research and development in the field, attracting new investments and fostering competition.

ST. PAUL, Minn., March 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- 3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE) have signed a joint research project agreement to develop large liquid hydrogen storage tanks using Glass Bubbles from 3M – a high-strength, low-density hollow glass microsphere. The collaborative research will focus on developing a high-performance vacuum insulation system for liquified hydrogen storage and transportation.

3M and HD Hyundai will conduct a joint research project to develop large liquid hydrogen storage tanks.

"We are honored to conduct joint research with 3M on insulation materials for hydrogen storage tanks," said Kim Sung-jun, CEO of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering.

Hydrogen technology is a major factor for the future of clean energy, but the success of storing and transporting liquid hydrogen is key to its viability. Hydrogen needs to be transported as a liquid and not a gas, because it can be reduced to 1/800^th the volume. However, hydrogen is liquefied at a very low temperature of minus 253 degrees Celsius, so a high-performance insulation system for the tanks and the main materials involved are critical.

"Through this agreement, we hope to successfully build a technology collaboration system that can lead the world in the field of liquified hydrogen storage and transportation," said Dr. Kwang pil Jang, President of the Future Technology Research Institute. "We are very excited to collaborate with 3M, which currently produces one of the highest performing insulation products in the world. HD KSOE will surely lead the future hydrogen society through synergy with 3M based on the global top technology we have accumulated so far."

A signing ceremony was held at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and was attended by Kim Sung-jun and Kwang pil Jang, along with 3M's Advanced Materials Division president Brian Coleman and global lab director Patrick Fischer.

"This collaboration is a major step forward in the pursuit of making hydrogen technologies available at scale," said Coleman. "3M's glass bubbles offer significant advantages over traditional cryogenic insulation materials when it comes to thermal efficiency and durability. We're thrilled to lend our expertise and world-class materials science in the hydrogen value chain."

Under the agreement, the two companies will collaborate on insulation and construction workability evaluations, demonstrations, and classification approvals for the application of 3M's Glass Bubbles to HD HHI's advanced thermal insulation system for hydrogen storage tanks. Through this, the two companies hope to capture the initial volume of orders for high-value-added ships based on ultra-gap technologies in the rapidly approaching hydrogen society and further strengthen the competitiveness of the domestic shipbuilding industry.

Learn more about 3M solutions in the hydrogen economy

About 3M
3M (NYSE: MMM) believes science helps create a brighter world for everyone. By unlocking the power of people, ideas and science to reimagine what's possible, our global team uniquely addresses the opportunities and challenges of our customers, communities, and planet. Learn how we're working to improve lives and make what's next at 3M.com/news.

About HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE)
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) is the intermediate holding company of HD Hyundai's marine sector, one of South Korea's largest heavy industries conglomerates engaging in shipbuilding, heavy equipment, and energy businesses. Founded in 1972 and headquartered in the Republic of Korea, HD KSOE aims to become a technology-oriented company in the shipbuilding & offshore business equipped with world-class R&D and engineering capabilities. As the world's largest shipbuilder, it is leading the global market with its competitiveness in innovation and R&D, focusing on projects on shipbuilding, offshore engineering, naval shipbuilding, marine engine, marine system solutions and more. With over 50 years of experience in the industry, it is especially known for its great expertise in ship design and construction, including those on ammonia carriers, liquid carbon dioxide carriers, and ships designed for low carbon fuels.

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SOURCE 3M Company

FAQ

What is the focus of the joint research project between 3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE)?

The joint research project aims to develop large liquid hydrogen storage tanks using Glass Bubbles from 3M to enhance the insulation system for liquified hydrogen storage and transportation.

Why is it important to transport hydrogen as a liquid and not a gas?

Hydrogen needs to be transported as a liquid and not a gas because it can be reduced to 1/800th the volume, making transportation more efficient. However, hydrogen liquefies at a very low temperature of minus 253 degrees Celsius, requiring a high-performance insulation system for the tanks.

Who are the key figures involved in the signing ceremony at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES)?

The signing ceremony at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) was attended by Kim Sung-jun and Kwang pil Jang from HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, along with Brian Coleman and Patrick Fischer from 3M's Advanced Materials Division.

What advantages do 3M's glass bubbles offer over traditional cryogenic insulation materials?

3M's glass bubbles offer significant advantages in thermal efficiency and durability over traditional cryogenic insulation materials, making them a preferred choice for hydrogen technology applications.

What are the main goals of the collaboration between 3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE)?

The collaboration aims to enhance the insulation and construction workability evaluations, demonstrations, and classification approvals for the application of 3M's Glass Bubbles to HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering's advanced thermal insulation system for hydrogen storage tanks.