3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE) have joined forces in a joint research project aimed at developing large liquid hydrogen storage tanks. The focus of this collaboration is to leverage 3M’s Glass Bubbles—a high-strength, low-density hollow glass microsphere—in the creation of a high-performance vacuum insulation system for liquefied hydrogen storage and transportation.
The successful storage and transportation of liquid hydrogen are pivotal factors for the future of clean energy. Unlike gas, hydrogen needs to be transported in liquid form, as it can be compressed to 1/800th of its volume. However, liquefying hydrogen requires extremely low temperatures, around minus 253 degrees Celsius, making a high-performance insulation system essential for tanks.
Dr. Kwang pil Jang, President of the Future Technology Research Institute, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “Through this agreement, we hope to successfully build a technology collaboration system that can lead the world in the field of liquefied hydrogen storage and transportation.” He added that the partnership with 3M, a producer of high-performing insulation products, positions HD KSOE to play a leading role in the future hydrogen society.
The signing ceremony for the joint research project took place at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and was attended by key representatives from both companies. Under the agreement, 3M and HD Hyundai Korea will collaborate on insulation and construction workability evaluations, demonstrations, and classification approvals for the application of 3M’s Glass Bubbles to HD HHI’s advanced thermal insulation system for hydrogen storage tanks.
The collaboration aims to secure initial orders for high-value-added ships based on ultra-gap technologies, contributing to the rapidly evolving hydrogen society while strengthening the competitiveness of the domestic shipbuilding industry. This strategic partnership reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable and innovative solutions in the clean energy sector.