The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Texas A&M engineers a grant to develop advanced materials for hydrogen-fired gas turbines. This project aims to create high-performance alloys, protective coatings, and cooling systems capable of operating at temperatures above 3000°F.
Current nickel-based superalloys melt at around 2400°F, but researchers are exploring refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) with melting points exceeding 3500°F. The initiative supports the goal to decarbonize energy by 2035, replacing natural gas with hydrogen to minimize carbon emissions.
The team will test these new alloys under conditions that mimic the extreme environments of hydrogen turbines, assessing their resilience against high temperatures, oxidation, and moisture. This innovative approach could significantly enhance turbine efficiency while supporting sustainable energy generation.
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