HiPowAR

HiPowAR is an EU-funded research project aimed at developing a novel and highly efficient technology for energy conversion. The focus is on the direct conversion of the synthetic, carbon-free fuel ammonia (NH₃) into electrical energy or propulsion power.

In contrast to existing approaches that combine multiple technologies, HiPowAR pursues a fundamentally new concept: the energy conversion takes place within a single system. At its core is a high-pressure membrane reactor in which ammonia is oxidised under specific conditions. So-called MIEC membranes (mixed ionic electronic conductors) are used, which selectively allow oxygen to pass through, thereby enabling a controlled reaction.

The energy generated in this process is used to produce a hot, pressurised gas, which is then converted into mechanical or electrical energy via an expander (e.g. a turbine). This method makes it possible to avoid the typical losses and complex components of conventional systems, such as those found in fuel cells.

A key advantage of the HiPowAR approach lies in its high efficiency and its potential to reduce costs, particularly for larger-scale installations. At the same time, the project contributes to making ammonia more viable as a storable, CO₂-free energy carrier – an important prerequisite for future sustainable energy systems.

The German project partners are the coordinating Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology, Fraunhofer IKTS, and the Centre for Fuel Cell Technology. In addition, companies and research institutions from Sweden and Italy are involved.