New Advanced Hydrogen Testing Facility to Support Low-Carbon Transition
A major step forward in hydrogen research and industrial decarbonisation has been achieved with the successful design, upgrade, and commissioning of a state-of-the-art test rig capable of operating in a 100% hydrogen environment.
This newly developed facility allows materials to be tested at temperatures of up to 1650°C under pure hydrogen (H₂), providing a highly controlled and safe environment for advanced experimentation and research.
The project involved repurposing existing infrastructure, conducting a comprehensive in-house HAZOP (Hazard and Operability) study, and implementing rigorous safety and operational controls prior to testing.
Supporting the Shift to Hydrogen Technologies
The initiative was driven by the growing need to understand how materials behave in hydrogen-rich environments, a critical requirement as industries transition toward hydrogen-based, low-carbon processes. By establishing this capability, the Materials Processing Institute (MPI) aims to address key technical challenges and accelerate the adoption of hydrogen technologies.
Wide-Ranging Applications
The facility will support a variety of applications, including:
• Material compatibility and degradation studies, such as hydrogen embrittlement and oxidation
• Validation and qualification of components for hydrogen service
• Research and development, as well as industrial trials for hydrogen-based processes
Strategic Benefits
This new capability positions MPI at the forefront of hydrogen innovation. It will:
• Establish a unique and high-value testing capability
• Enable involvement in hydrogen and decarbonisation programmes
• Open opportunities for commercial projects and collaborative partnerships
• Build internal expertise in hydrogen safety and testing protocols
Access to specialised testing under 100% hydrogen conditions will help reduce deployment risks, ensure compliance with emerging hydrogen standards, and accelerate the development of hydrogen-ready technologies.
Commitment to Safety and Standards
All work has been conducted in line with best-practice process safety methodologies. The facility aligns with relevant UK and international standards, including DSEAR and ATEX principles, and operates within a controlled testing environment with robust risk mitigation measures.
Part of the PRISM Programme
The project was delivered as part of the PRISM Project and represents a key contribution to advancing low-carbon industrial capabilities. It demonstrates the practical implementation of hydrogen technologies and reinforces MPI’s commitment to developing and supporting industrial decarbonisation-focused programmes.
30 March 2026
