Fraunhofer IWKS
The performance center, also known as Green Materials for Hydrogen, or GreenMat4Hy for short, is not an independent research institution but a thematic platform within which the Fraunhofer Institute for Materials Recycling and Resource Strategies from Hanau and the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability, Darmstadt, collaborate.
Microwave-based Plasma Pyrolysis for Hydrogen from Waste
The model of a reactor for microwave-based plasma pyrolysis is brought to Hamburg by the Fraunhofer Institute for Materials Recycling and Resource Strategies IWKS. The input materials can be, for example, plastic waste, oils, or biogas – the important thing is that they contain hydrocarbons. With the help of the highly reactive microwave plasma, the substances are decomposed without elaborate pretreatment. The result is hydrogen, synthesis gas, and high-quality carbon. According to Fraunhofer, CO2 is not produced in the process itself. However, the overall balance would also need to consider the energy input and further use of the synthesis gas. According to Fraunhofer IWKS, the modular process can flexibly respond to different residual material streams and available renewable energy. This opens up new ways for companies to combine hydrogen production, waste utilization, and circular value creation. The exhibition exhibit is intended to illustrate the conversion process and possible industrial applications.
Reality Check for Coated Pipelines
The conversion of natural gas pipelines has long been a topic for the hydrogen ramp-up. High pressures and high gas flow rates could promote the feared hydrogen embrittlement. Thin internal coatings are intended to reduce direct contact between hydrogen and steel. The Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF is developing methods to assess the adhesion, durability, and lifespan of these coatings under realistic loads. This creates reliable foundations for safe investment decisions, longer service lives, and the transfer of existing gas networks into the hydrogen economy. To ensure it doesn't remain theoretical, a real pipeline section can be seen at the exhibition.
The Fraunhofer Performance Center Hydrogen Hessen can be found at Stand 6B25.
This article is part of the H2international Travel Guide for the Hydrogen Technology World Expo and Conference. More exhibition tips are available on the following channels:
– in the H2international newsletter on October 13, 2026. Free registration here.
– in the H2international webinar on October 14, 2026. Free registration here.
