Title: ” HYDROGEN FUEL CELL AND COMPRESSED AIR PROPULSION FOR SUSTAINABLE SEA TRANSPORT”
Date: Tuesday, 26th 4 pm
Venue: Smart classroom
Zoom link: https://usp-fj.zoom.us/j/85702733917?pwd=8b4SysXvPNeposvaBWj1WPX0Hf98S9.1
Defense Abstract:
This doctoral research delivers the first experimental and technical investigation into hydrogen Fuel Cells for sustainable marine transport in Oceania, addressing a critical gap in regional clean energy studies. It also examines compressed air energy storage (CAES) as an alternative zero-emission propulsion option. Two independent systems were developed and tested: a 1.2 kW Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) rig and an 80 W compressed air engine (CAE) designed and built for this study. Both were supported by validated numerical models for simulating scaled-up marine applications. The PEMFC model incorporated experimental data with parameter estimation refined through genetic algorithm optimization, while the CAE’s performance was assessed by direct coupling to a DC generator for key operating characteristics. A techno-economic analysis followed, producing the first Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) for Fiji at USD 11.66/kg for green hydrogen, and introducing the Levelized Cost of Compressed Air (LCCA) at USD 0.18/kg for solar-powered compression at 25 bar. Comparative results showed the PEMFC system could reduce fuel costs by 76.1% relative to a two-stroke petrol baseline, while the CAE system—despite zero operational emissions—would incur 378.6% higher fuel costs per trip and require around 300 kg of compressed air at 25 bars, creating logistical challenges. Both systems achieve zero operational emissions and moderate life-cycle emissions when powered by renewables, aligning with regional decarbonization goals. Key barriers include high capital costs for hydrogen production and the need for technical capacity in fuel cell setup, operation, and maintenance. By combining experimental validation, numerical modelling, and economic assessment, this study establishes foundational performance and cost benchmarks for hydrogen energy in Pacific marine transport and aims to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in the region, providing a pathway to sustainable maritime transport.
Biodata:
Krishnil is an Assistant Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering (STEMP) with more than a decade of experience in academia, research, and consultancy. His research focuses on renewable energy systems, with expertise in wind energy, wave energy, solar energy, and parameter estimation techniques using Genetic Algorithm Optimization (GAO). He has contributed to numerous energy projects across the Oceania region, supporting the development and adoption of clean energy technologies. He holds a Master of Science in Engineering, specializing in the application of intelligent airfoil design codes for aerodynamic optimization. He is a member of Engineering New Zealand (M.EngNZ) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) with graduate membership to the Fiji Institute of Engineers (FIE). Currently, his doctoral research investigates hydrogen fuel cells and compressed air energy storage for sustainable marine transport application, aiming to establish performance and cost benchmarks that will accelerate the adoption of hydrogen energy solutions in the Pacific region.
