Imagine taking the battery technology from a hydrogen car and scaling it up to power a giant plane. Instead of just moving a small car, this tech aims to push a 100-passenger aircraft through the sky. It uses clever 3D-printed cooling parts and new materials to keep the system light and from overheating.
Current automotive fuel cells are limited to 100 kW, which is insufficient for aircraft. Aviation requires multi-MW power that can handle extreme temperatures and pressures while remaining lightweight and safe.
A full-scale 2-PC demonstrator and test report. This includes new catalysts, membranes, 2-phase cooling systems, and 3D-printed heat exchangers.
If you are an aircraft manufacturer dealing with the weight and heat of electric engines — this project developed a multi-MW power generation system that can propel a 100-passenger plane for 1,000 nautical miles.
If you are a component manufacturer dealing with inefficient heat rejection in engines — this project developed additive manufactured heat exchangers that reduce drag and weight while increasing cooling capacity.
If you are a fuel cell producer dealing with the limitation of 100 kW automotive systems — this project developed catalysts and membranes that enable a power range of over 2 MW for aviation standards.
Based on available project data, specific cost or price figures are not provided; however, the project aims to reduce equipment costs through a new air supply architecture.
Yes, the project targets a multi-stack system with a power range of over 2 MW, designed for aircraft carrying up to 100 passengers.
Based on available project data, the specific licensing terms are not mentioned, but the project is coordinated by Airbus Operations GmbH with 15 other partners.
The system uses a modular architecture to balance weight and safety, specifically designed for ranges up to 1,000 nautical miles.
The project period runs from 2022-12-01 to 2026-06-30, with the goal of reaching TRL5 validation.
The project is heavily industry-driven, with a 75% industry ratio (12 out of 16 partners). Led by Airbus Operations GmbH, the consortium includes 5 countries (DE, ES, FR, IT, NL) and integrates 2 SMEs, ensuring that the research is closely aligned with commercial aviation requirements and manufacturing capabilities.
Contact Airbus Operations GmbH regarding the BRAVA project deliverables.
Contact us to find partners for scaling TRL5 fuel cell aviation components.
