MIT-Rooted LOHC Engine Targets 71% GHG Reduction in Heavy-Duty Trucking

Cambridge, MA – A new venture, LOHC Engines, co-founded by MIT mechanical engineering student Alexis Huynh, is advancing a novel hydrogen-based powertrain system designed to decarbonize heavy-duty trucking. The technology, rooted in research from MIT's Green Research Group, aims to provide a practical and sustainable alternative to diesel, promising a 71% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Huynh is supported in her efforts as a climate fellow by the 776 Foundation.

LOHC Engines' innovative system utilizes Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHCs) as fuel. These organic liquids can reversibly absorb and release hydrogen, allowing for safe and efficient storage and transport at ambient temperatures and pressures. Unlike traditional hydrogen solutions that require extensive new infrastructure for compression or liquefaction, LOHCs are compatible with existing liquid fuel logistics, minimizing adoption barriers.

The core of the powertrain is an on-board dehydrogenation system that feeds hydrogen gas directly into a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. This design cleverly repurposes waste heat from the engine's exhaust to power the dehydrogenation process, significantly boosting efficiency. The company states this approach can achieve hydrogen delivery efficiency more than double that of current market systems.

According to LOHC Engines, their fuel can reach cost-parity with diesel without subsidies, assuming a hydrogen cost of $1.60/kg, which is near current blue hydrogen market prices. This economic viability is crucial for an industry driven by narrow margins, facilitating a more immediate transition to cleaner transport. The company emphasizes a "one-to-one replacement" capability for heavy-duty trucks, ensuring comparable performance.

Alexis Huynh, an undergraduate mechanical engineering student at MIT, has been actively involved in hydrogen technology research, including designing and testing pressure vessels for hydrogen storage. Her work with Professor William H. Green's group at MIT focuses on integrating hydrogen internal combustion engines with liquid hydrogen fuel carriers. The 776 Foundation recognizes and supports her contributions to climate innovation.

The development by LOHC Engines comes amidst a growing global interest in LOHC technology as a viable solution for large-scale hydrogen storage and transportation, particularly for sectors where direct hydrogen handling poses challenges. This advancement could significantly impact the decarbonization of the trucking industry, a major contributor to global emissions.