Honeywell, WPI partner on hydrogen fuel cell solutions for aircraft

A new partnership between Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Honeywell Aerospace is aimed squarely at helping the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint by examining how hydrogen fuel cells can help power the next generation of aircraft.

This work focuses on hydrogen storage and power generation technology for all forms of air travel, including unmanned aerial vehicles, passenger and cargo travel. Honeywell is supplying hydrogen equipment and technology expertise and has established a significant presence on WPI’s campus, with lab space in Goddard Hall and offices at Gateway Park.

“The aviation industry has recognized an imperative to de-carbonize, which is extremely challenging in the weight- and volume-constrained environment of an aircraft. Hydrogen, along with sustainable aviation fuels and aircraft electrification, represents a huge opportunity for the aerospace industry to meet the UN’s 2050 climate targets,” said Andrew Teixeira.

“Honeywell has technology on virtually every commercial flight, from engines and APUs (Auxiliary Power Units, like the one that powered Sully’s landing on the Hudson River) to avionics, environmental control and other aircraft systems. For the past several years we’ve ramped up our exploration of hydrogen solutions — both combustion and fuel cells — as well as other ready-now technologies that help our customers, create a more sustainable future,” said Phil Robinson.

He further added, “The unique talent pool and opportunity for collaboration drove Honeywell’s choice to work with WPI, and we’ve been very pleased with our interactions with WPI faculty, staff and students alike. We’re excited to bring unique clean technologies to our aviation customers, and also help guide WPI research in as-of-yet unexplored areas.”