MIT Startup Converts Diesel Heavy Trucks to Hydrogen Power

LNK Energies, a startup originating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has developed a system designed to convert current diesel-powered heavy-duty trucks into hydrogen-powered vehicles. The initiative aims to reduce pollution and lower operating costs for transport companies, while mitigating the impact of fuel price fluctuations.

The core of LNK's technology involves storing hydrogen within a liquid organic compound, which can then be released as needed. This approach bypasses the challenges associated with traditional hydrogen vehicles, such as the requirement for large and expensive high-pressure hydrogen tanks. The company's proprietary reactor, responsible for releasing hydrogen from the carrier liquid, has been significantly miniaturized to the size of a mini-fridge, enabling installation within the truck.

"Many existing dehydrogeneration reactors are about the size of a shipping container. We've shrunk the reactor down to the size of a mini-fridge," stated Alexis Houin, LNK's Chief Technology Officer. This miniaturization also contributes to energy efficiency, as it eliminates the need for energy-intensive high-pressure compression of hydrogen.

The released hydrogen can be directly utilized in an internal combustion engine. Existing diesel truck engines require only minor modifications to run on hydrogen. Furthermore, waste heat from the engine can be repurposed to power the onboard reactor. For companies seeking zero-emission operation, an alternative option involves using hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which then powers an electric motor.

According to the company, the liquid hydrogen carrier can be stored in conventional fuel tanks, and the refueling process is identical to that of diesel. This eliminates the need for dedicated hydrogen fueling infrastructure. LNK plans to install its technology in a commercial truck within the next 18 months.