Integrated Hydrogen-Argon Power Cycle (iHAPC)

The University of Oulu is a key partner in the Integrated Hydrogen-Argon Power Cycle (iHAPC) project, a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming sustainable power generation. This three-year endeavor, spanning from 2025 to 2027, seeks to advance Argon Power Cycle (APC) technology to Technology Readiness Level 6, achieving an exceptional 65% efficiency in net-zero emissions power generation.

Central to the iHAPC project is the innovative application of argon—a non-toxic, inert gas prevalent in the atmosphere—to enhance the thermodynamic efficiency of internal combustion engines. By substituting air with an argon-oxygen mixture in the combustion process, the cycle facilitates the complete utilization of green hydrogen, producing only water as a combustion byproduct. This water can be sustainably recycled within the system, creating a closed-loop combustion cycle that not only ensures net-zero emissions but also markedly improves efficiency.

The University of Oulu's contribution is pivotal, focusing on the design and instrumentation of the argon closed-loop system, encompassing piping and simulation components. Leveraging advanced simulation tools, process design, and control systems, the university's expertise is instrumental in the successful development and scaling of APC technology.

Associate Professor Amin Mahmoudzadeh Andwari, leading the University of Oulu’s efforts in the iHAPC project, underscores the importance of this collaboration: “Participating in the iHAPC consortium allows us to apply our advanced research capabilities to a project with the potential to set new standards in sustainable energy. Our focus on the argon closed-loop system design is crucial for achieving the project’s ambitious efficiency and sustainability goals.”

The iHAPC consortium, spearheaded by the University of Vaasa, unites a robust network of research institutions and industry leaders, including the University of Oulu, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Wärtsilä, Parker Hannifin Manufacturing Finland Oy, Vahterus Oy, Vaisala Oyj, and TotalEnergies SE. The project receives primary funding from Business Finland, with additional contributions from the participating organizations.

In addition to Finnish expertise, the iHAPC project boasts significant international collaboration with esteemed institutions worldwide. These include Universitat Politècnica de València (Spain), Eindhoven University of Technology (Netherlands), Politecnico di Torino (Italy), University of Stuttgart (Germany), Brunel University London (UK), University of Leeds (UK), University of California, Berkeley (USA), and University of Massachusetts Lowell (USA). This global partnership fosters research exchanges and promotes a collaborative knowledge-sharing environment to tackle key technological challenges.

The iHAPC project is integrated into the Wide & Intelligent Sustainable Energy (WISE) ecosystem program, led by Wärtsilä, and is connected to pertinent European research networks. This alliance highlights the commitment of Finnish research and industry to pioneering solutions for a carbon-neutral future.