For the study, Pavlidi and her colleagues used cutting-edge modelling software to design and simulate a 1 MW LOHC–SOFC system. The study showed how waste heat from the fuel cells can be utilised to drive the LOHC dehydrogenation process and produce extra power via organic Rankine cycle (ORC) solutions.
The results showed that with these solutions fully implemented, the system efficiency of up to 89%.
“Overall, the study confirms the viability of an LOHC-SOFC system as a clean energy solution for maritime applications, providing high efficiency and minimal environmental impact,” the researchers conclude, adding:
“Further research and optimization, particularly in the reactor design and heat recovery strategies, are needed to enhance the system performance and commercial feasibility in the future and accompanied with a techno-economic analysis to evaluate its cost-effectiveness.”
The 38th International Conference on Efficiency, Cost, Optimization, Simulation and Environmental Impact of Energy Systems (ECOS 2025) was held in Paris from 29 June to 4 July, gathering 470 participants from 45 countries.
The reseach was funded in part through Ship-aH2oy with additional funding through the Greek “Navgreen” project. In related work, the research team has also modeled a 1 MW system with PEM fuel cells.
Reference:
Alexandra Pavlidi et al. 2025. Integration of liquid organic hydrogen carrier with solid oxide fuel cell and waste heat recovery solutions for maritime use. The 38th International Conference on Efficiency, Cost, Optimization, Simulation and Environmental Impact of Energy Systems.
