TiNTHyN

General objective:

The TiNTHyN (Tintin Hydrogen Network) project, part of the e-WallonHY Strategic Innovation Initiative, aims to develop innovative, low-TRL technologies for the green hydrogen sector in Wallonia. Supported by a consortium of 5 universities, 4 research centers and several industrial partners, it relies on 12 doctoral theses to cover the entire value chain: production (electrolyzers, advanced materials, catalytic plasma), transport and storage (polymer tanks, pipelines, material compatibility), as well as use (fuel cells, H₂-NH₃ combustion, simulations). TiNTHyN thus intends to strengthen Walloon skills, promote technology transfers, and position the region as a key hydrogen player in Europe.

Materia Nova's mission:

As part of the TiNTHyN project, Materia Nova is playing a central role by supervising four strategic doctoral theses, drawing on its expertise in materials science, plasma technologies and advanced processes. This research targets key technological challenges in the hydrogen sector, from production to use, with the aim of accelerating the maturity of innovative, low-TRL solutions.

The first thesis, SOFC, aims to develop high-chromium steel supports with controlled porosity for high-temperature electrolyzers and fuel cells, based on a detailed understanding of degradation mechanisms under thermomechanical stress. Materia Nova is contributing by developing protective coatings on low-cost steels and optimizing electrode formulation via spray pyrolysis.

The second thesis explores plasma synthesis of ammonia, a promising alternative to the Haber-Bosch process. Materia Nova is involved in evaluating, on its plasma cluster, the performance of the process developed by ULB for ammonia reforming, with a view to cross-validation and optimization.

The third thesis, dedicated to hydrogen tanks, seeks to improve the durability of composite tanks under pressurized storage conditions. Here, Materia Nova is developing innovative hydrogen barrier layers using plasma processes, aimed at limiting permeation and prolonging the life of materials in H₂ environments.

Finally, in the PEM Catalyst thesis, the aim is to design high-performance, long-lasting catalysts for fuel cells, breaking with commercial standards. Materia Nova is leveraging its plasmalysis skills to produce in situ doped carbon supports, complemented by advanced treatments via plasma torch to fine-tune the structure and functionality of the materials.

Partners:

UCL, UMONS, ULiège, ULB, Materia Nova, Cenaero, CRM

Project website:

https://www.tinthyn.be/

Contact Materia Nova:

Thomas Godfroid thomas.godfroid@materianova.be

Fabrizio Maseri fabrizio.maseri@materianova.be