Stress testing for a fossil-free future

As part of the transition to a fossil-free transport system, TechForH2 partner Volvo Group has the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emission-enabled products by 2040. The Group is investing heavily in technologies such as battery-electric, fuel-cell electric, and hydrogen internal combustion engines. A key to a successful transition is close collaboration with academia, such as through partnerships involving industrial PhD students.

While planning for low volume customer tests of trucks with hydrogen-powered combustion engines in 2026, the Volvo Group is also investing in fuel cell technology. Fuel cell-powered trucks offer higher efficiency, zero emissions, and quieter operation than their internal combustion engine truck counterparts. The Volvo Group started testing its first trucks using fuel cell technology in 2022, and plan to start commercial customer pilots of low volume first generation fuel cell-powered trucks within a couple of years.  

Life span limitations

In 2023, TechForH2 PhD student Gnana Lahari Kothala joined Volvo Group to focus on fuel cell technology. One of the challenges in developing this new technology is a requirement for longevity. Different components inside the fuel cells, like the membrane or electrodes, degrade due to factors such as high voltage, high temperature or deviating humidity. Gnana Lahari Kothala’s research is primarily focusing on creating realistic accelerated stress tests (AST).

“Over time, the fuel cell components deteriorate, which causes a reduction in efficiency and performance, ultimately affecting the vehicle’s operational life span. My research focuses on developing realistic AST’s that simulate real-world driving conditions, including variations in load, temperature, and humidity. These tests will provide deeper insights into degradation mechanisms, helping to extend the lifespan of fuel cell components,” says Gnana Lahari Kothala.

A critical component of a fuel cell is the catalyst layer. It is used to speed up chemical reactions that generate electricity. This layer contains platinum, which is an effective catalyst for reactions involving hydrogen and oxygen.

“I’m primarily focusing on the degradation of the catalyst layer in fuel cells. Due to factors like platinum oxidation and dissolution, the number of active catalysts available for reactions is reduced. The carbon material that supports the platinum catalyst also corrodes over time, weakening the structure and causing further efficiency loss. I am investigating the root causes of catalyst layer degradation under realistic operating conditions. A clear understanding of these mechanisms will pave the way for developing effective solutions,” says Gnana Lahari Kothala.

Collaboration through the research community

In the competence center TechForH2, a joint venture between Chalmers, RISE, and the industry, several PhD students, including Gnana Lahari Kothala, are working on different projects related to hydrogen. One of the research areas in the center revolves entirely around fuel cells.

“Our team focuses on various aspects of fuel cells, which foster insightful discussions and knowledge sharing. These collaborations not only deepen our understanding but also drive innovation. Being part of a community rich in expertise - from both academic and industrial perspectives - greatly benefits our work in hydrogen,” says Gnana Lahari Kothala.