Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA
Hydrogen Technologies
Our research for the hydrogen economy of tomorrow
Hydrogen is a key enabling technology for a climate-neutral industry. At Fraunhofer IPA, we develop solutions across the entire hydrogen value chain – from production, storage, and transport to industrial applications and mobility. Drawing on our expertise in production engineering, automation, and digitalization, we accelerate the transfer of research into industrial implementation.
Our objective is to make hydrogen technologies efficient, scalable, and sustainable. Together with industry partners, we advance innovations toward industrial deployment, establish new manufacturing approaches, and support companies in developing competitive hydrogen systems.
Our focus areas
- Automated manufacturing of electrolyzers and fuel cells
- Digital production systems for scalable hydrogen technologies
- Recycling and circular economy solutions for hydrogen components
- Integration of hydrogen into industrial processes
- Innovative storage and transport solutions
From concept to scalable production: Manufacturing hydrogen technologies
Electrolyzers and fuel cells are essential for the large-scale adoption of the hydrogen economy. Their industrial deployment requires scalable and efficient manufacturing processes.
Together with industry partners, Fraunhofer IPA develops:
- Automated manufacturing systems for fuel cells and electrolyzers
- Digital twins for quality assurance and product optimization
- Standards for scalable production and process control of hydrogen technologies
Industry partners can validate new processes in pilot projects and integrate them into production at an early stage, accelerating the industrial adoption of new technologies.
Energy available when needed: Hydrogen storage and transport
Hydrogen can only realize its full potential if it can be stored and distributed reliably. Together with industry partners, we develop practical solutions ranging from compressed and liquid hydrogen storage to innovative approaches such as ammonia electrolysis.Our research combines technological innovation with the practical industrial requirements, including safety, efficiency, and economic viability. Companies benefit from solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into existing energy infrastructures.Hydrogen in practice: Integration into industrial processes
Whether in energy-intensive manufacturing, process heat applications, or energy management systems, hydrogen offers significant potential for the decarbonization of industry. Together with industry partners, we develop tailored solutions for the direct integration of hydrogen into industrial processes, with a strong focus on efficiency, security of supply, and economic viability.
Shaping the hydrogen economy of tomorrow together
Join us in shaping the hydrogen economy of tomorrow. Whether you are a start-up, SME, or large industrial enterprise, we collaborate with you to develop tailored solutions and transfer innovations into industrial practice. Get in touch with us to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.