Hydrogen: a major technological challenge
Hydrogen: technological challenges in metallic materials" days
October 16 and 17, 2024 at the Maison de la Mécanique, Courbevoie
90 participants
1 exhibitor
On October 16 and 17, 2024, the Maison de la Mécanique in Courbevoie hosted the 2nd edition of the "Hydrogen: Technological Challenges in Metallic Materials" days. Organized by A3TS, the event brought together 90 participants from various industrial sectors (energy, aeronautics, automotive, surface treatment, etc.) and the academic world. The aim was to explore the challenges associated with hydrogen in metallic materials.
These days brought together industrial and academic experts to discuss the major issues surrounding hydrogen, from its impact on materials to innovations for its production, storage and use.
Olivier BOUCAT (Air Liquide) introduced the event with the AIR LIQUIDE Group's strategic vision of the development of hydrogen markets, which could account for up to 22% of global end-use energy demand by 2025. Demand will be driven by the decarbonization of Industry (Metallurgy, Chemicals, Refining) and "heavy" mobility: heavy-duty road transport in the short term, and air transport in the longer term. Materials will play a key role in ensuring the reliability, durability and safety of infrastructures and equipment for production (electrolysis, biomethane reforming, carbon sequestration, etc.), packaging (in cryogenic liquid or compressed form), storage and distribution to filling stations.
Technical sessions then focused onhydrogen damage in metallic materials, with notable contributions from Airbus Helicopters and ArcelorMittal. Discussions addressed issues such as hydrogen embrittlement in aeronautical manufacturing processes and the strength of high-performance steels.
In the afternoon, presentations on pipeline embrittlement and the impact of gaseous environments highlighted the specific industrial challenges associated with hydrogen. The session concluded with studies on theeffect of hydrogen on steel toughness.
The second part of the day focused on hydrogen metrology, with presentations on methodological and technological advances, notably by Lasalys and Cetim. Particular attention was paid to the measurement and localization of hydrogen in metallic materials, a crucial subject for guaranteeing the reliability of structures.
The second day continued this theme with critical analyses of hydrogen measurement methods, before moving on to sessions dedicated to energy and materials. Several presentations, such as one by the University of Bordeaux, highlighted innovative solutions such as protective coatings for fuel cell electrodes.
The day concluded with presentations on the production, storage and use of hydrogen, addressing issues such as corrosion of materials in tanks and electrolyzers, and the influence of surface materials on device performance.
The exchanges were rich and varied, testifying to the dynamism of the scientific and industrial community in the face of the challenges posed by hydrogen. The event helped build bridges between fundamental research and industrial applications, opening up new prospects for the future of energy.
We would like to thank the speakers and participants for the success of this event. See you in 2026 for the next edition of these days in 2026!