NExt generation high poWer fuel cells for airBORNe applications

The "NEWBORN" project, officially titled "NExt generation high poWer fuel cells for airBORNe applications," focuses on developing and demonstrating advanced fuel cell technology for aircraft propulsion. Coordinated by Honeywell International SRO, the project aims to create a TRL 4 ground demonstrator using fuel cells to generate electricity for aviation applications.

The key innovations of the project include:

1. Modular PEM Fuel Cell Stack: Designed for high power density (>5kW/kg) and operating temperatures over 105°C, capable of delivering up to 1 MW, with an intermediate configuration demonstrated at 720 kW.
2. Cryogenic Tank: A self-regulated, structural, and load-bearing tank with high gravimetric efficiency and minimal boil-off.
3. Dual Architecture Air Supply System: Ensures efficient air management for the fuel cells.
4. Thermal Management System: Tightly integrated for optimal thermal regulation.
5. Lightweight Heat Exchangers: With low pressure drops, enhancing overall system efficiency.
6. Digital Twin and High-Density Converters: Utilizes multi-fidelity digital twins and modular DC/DC converters with power densities over 20 kW/kg and efficiency exceeding 98%, scalable up to 10 MW.
7. High Voltage Propulsion System: Designed for high power density and scalability.
8. Innovative Battery Pack: Featuring advanced thermal management.

The project also includes developing and integrating subsystems such as the control system and power distribution architecture, focusing on scalability and efficiency. Initial work has concentrated on defining the system architecture, addressing technical challenges, and preparing for subsystem integration.