Hydrogen Energy
Research & Education

Kyushu University

Message from The President
Kyushu University aims to become an institution that ‶drives social change with integrative knowledge." In
November 2021 we were selected as a Designated National University Corporation and our aim is to be an institution
oﬀering the highest global standards of education and research, so that we can contribute to designing the ideal
society of the future and solving societal issues. The university's three missions, which build on its strengths, aredecarbonization, medicine and health, and environment and food. Among these, what perhaps best symbolize ourinitiatives towards decarbonization are our hydrogen energy-related activities.
The climate crisis is a global challenge and green innovation initiatives are gathering pace both at home andabroad. Seeking to make university-wide eﬀorts to advance the decarbonization of society, Kyushu University isbuilding an internal network of approximately 200 researchers that transcends the boundaries between humanities
and sciences, under the Platform of Inter-/Transdisciplinary Energy Research (Q-PIT), where I serve as Director
General. Q-PIT is a cross-university platform that combines the strengths of the three hydrogen-related research
centers at Kyushu University, together with our international institutes and research centers and various faculties,
as we aim to realize our mission of decarbonization. Our goal for 2030 is to ‶propose innovative technologies and avision for society that will actualize discontinuous innovation towards decarbonization."
The Japanese government has formulated a green growth strategy, and as we look towards the realization of adecarbonized society, it is clear that hydrogen, which emits no CO₂ when used, is positioned as an energy carrierthat can enable decarbonization, together with the introduction of renewable energies andother innovations. What is more, green innovation is being steadily promoted throughindustry-academia-government collaborations, including with various regions from
Fukuoka City to Fukuoka Prefecture and the Kyushu region as a whole. As an innovation
hub that is the driver behind the Kyushu's status as one of the most decarbonized regionsof Japan, Kyushu University is committed to leveraging our various strengths in thehydrogen energy ﬁeld to create innovative technologies, propose regional growthstrategies and policies for building a decarbonized society model, contribute to thedevelopment of talented human resources capable of driving innovation, and ultimately
realize a decarbonized society.
Tatsuro ISHIBASHI, President, Kyushu University

Towards the realization of a hydrogen energy society based on fuel cell batteries

Growth and development●More than 200 people, including faculty students are engaged in cutting-edge
fuel cell and hydrogen energy-related research in an experiment andresearch facility that covers more than 15,000m2●A total of 10 research laboratories dedicated to commissioned or jointhydrogen-related research account for approximately 10% of Kyushu
University as a whole (over the last 10 years; approx. 700 professors at theuniversity in total)●Cumulative total of more than 50,000 visitors to hydrogen research facilities

Hydrogen Energy Fukuoka Hydrogen Town
(One of the world’s largest
Development Forum concentrated
installations of 150(International meeting publicizing
the latest research outcomes globally⇒Kyushu University Energy Week)

Special Zones
in Fukuoka
for Hydrogen
Technology
Research andDevelopment

2004

Next-Generation
Fuel Cell ResearchCenter (NEXT-FC)(World-class international research institutewhere English is the common language)(World’s first full-scalecenter for intensive
industry-academia
research on
next-generation fuelcells)

Department of Hydrogen
Center-of-Innovation (COI)
Energy Systems(Innovation hub for social

Hydrogen Highway(Being deployed nationwide
from the Kyushu University
Hydrogen Campus)(A world first, established in 2010 in
the Graduate School of Engineering)Research Center for Hydrogen Industrial (Inamori Frontier Research Center)
International Research
Use and Storage (HYDROGENIUS)
scientific researchCenter for Hydrogen Energy (Research center for hydrogen-related materials) (Future-oriented
for humanity and the world)

experimentation)

Future Energy Demonstration Facility(On-campus demonstration of technologies
developed at Kyushu University)(Hydrogen technologies incubator)

21st Century COE Program:
Integration Technology of
Mechanical Systems for
Hydrogen Utilization
2003

units of residential fuel cells)International Institute for
Carbon-Neutral Energy
Research

2005

2006

Hydrogen Energy Test and ResearchCenter, HyTReC (Fukuoka Prefecture)(Located in the suburbs of Ito, provides support
for industrialization)

Fukuoka Strategy Conference for Hydrogen Energy(More than 800 companies / organizations, among the largest in the world)
Fukuoka Hydrogen Strategy
Received the Excellence in Leadership Award (IPHE)(May 2010, Germany, International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in Economy(International Ministry-Level Conference))

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

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2015

2016

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2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Objectives of this Center-of-Excellence
for Hydrogen Energy

Aiming to be a world-class hydrogen-focused
green innovation hub

Prof. Dr. Kazunari SASAKI,
Senior Vice President, Kyushu University(Director of International Research Centerfor Hydrogen Energy)

Hydrogen has long been said to be a ‶dream fuel," due to the fact that while it has shown promise for many years, full-scale development and deployment have
proved to be elusive. However, in a situation in which the decarbonization of societies as a whole is being sought both in Japan and overseas, hydrogen is now
clearly positioned as a strategic energy carrier through which to achieve carbon neutrality of power, fuel and raw materials.
Not only can surplus electricity derived from renewable energy sources be converted to hydrogen through water electrolysis and stored, hydrogen derived fromoverseas renewable energy sources and hydrogen carriers can be imported, and fuels and chemicals can be produced from hydrogen and recovered CO₂. In regional
areas like Kyushu, which has a wealth of renewable energy resources, renewable hydrogen could be utilized as a heat source even in mobility and industrial sectors,
where electriﬁcation has previously been a challenge. It is in such ways that hydrogen can contribute to the decarbonization of all sectors of society, from power totransport, industry and daily living.
Making a hydrogen energy society a reality will require tremendous innovation to make the impossible possible. Universities are the institutions that produce thehuman resources who will lead the realization of a carbon neutral society in the latter part of this century. It is universities that nurture the talented people to whom
we can entrust our future, act as a green innovation hub, and continue to create new intellectual value.
Under the Kyushu University Hydrogen Project, Ito Campus, to which the university started to relocate from 2005, has been positioned as a “Hydrogen Campus.”
From 2005 hydrogen stations have been installed onsite, and to date have received a cumulative total of approximately 60,000 visitors. It is here where we havecontinued to engage in discussions with many people from Japan and overseas about the challenges and outlook for a hydrogen energy society.
Around the world universities are hubs for creating new industries, innovators of social change, and proponents of economic development and growth. Approximately
110 years ago, Kyushu Imperial University, the forerunner of today’s Kyushu University was established here in this region where Asia’s ﬁrst industrial revolution took
place. Education and research in the ﬁeld of energy is one of our strengths and part of our tradition stretching back more than a century. This region once ﬂourishedthanks to the presence of rich coal seams, but then subsequently faced challenging times as the tide of history changed. However, today the region is once again looking
to a bright future with the widespread presence of renewable energies and as a frontrunner in promoting carbon neutrality.
The Platform of Inter-/Transdisciplinary Energy Research (Q-PIT), which is headed by the President of Kyushu University, brings together various institutions of
the university, including the International ResearchCenter for Hydrogen Energy, the organization
Fukuoka Hydrogen FC Hub: From fundamental research to industry-academia collaboration
responsible for managing the hydrogen project;and full-scale commercialization and implementation
Research Center for Hydrogen Industrial Use andHydrogen Highway
Storage (HYDROGENIUS), a global hub for hydrogen
Fukuoka Hydrogen Town
Social(Being deployed nationwide from the(One of the world’s largest concentrated
embrittlement research; Next-Generation Fuel Cell
implementation Kyushu University hydrogen campus)
installations of 150 units of residential fuel cells)
Human
Research Center (NEXT-FC), which oﬀers on-campus
Center of Innovation (COI)(Innovation Hub for Social Implementation)
resources
space to company laboratories; International Institutedevelopment
for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research (I²CNER), an
Department of Hydrogeninternational research institute where English is theEnergy Systems
Technology
common language; and the Department of Hydrogen(A world first, established in 2010 inIndustry-academia
the Graduate School of Engineering)demonstration
Energy Systems, which is the world's premiercooperation
graduate school specializing in hydrogen energy.
Future Energy
Next-Generation Fuel Cell
Hydrogen Energy Test andAll of these organizations cooperate in the Fukuoka
Demonstration Facility
Research Center
Research Center, HyTReC(On-campus demonstration of technologies(World’s first full-scale center for intensive(Located in Itoshima City, provides support
Strategy Conference for Hydrogen Energy, whichdeveloped at Kyushu University)
industry-academia research in the field of SOFC)
for industrialization)is one of the world's largest forums for regional
industry-academia-government collaboration in thehydrogen energy sector, and continue to promote
International Institute forEnergycomprehensive hydrogen-related activities.
Fuel cell Hydrogen energy Carbon-Neutral
Research(Inamori Frontier
Located in Fukuoka Prefecture in Kyushu, in the(World-classresearch
institutein the field
International Research Center Research Center for Hydrogen Industrial
Research Center)of low-carbon energies)
heart of the growing East Asian region, Kyushu
for Hydrogen Energy
Use and Storage (HYDROGENIUS)(Scientific research for future science)(Hydrogen and fuel cell battery incubator) (Research center for hydrogen-related materials)
University is expected to be a driving force fordecarbonization. As a university open to society, wewant to bring all stakeholders together to consider
International
our vision for the future, and create a successful
Future science
cooperation
green model capable of transforming society throughFundamental researchinnovation.

◎Image of a low carbon society utilizing hydrogen technologies
Home-use energy
technologies supporting
fulﬁlling lifestyles

Fuel cellmotorcycle

Mobile phone,personalcomputerWind power / photovoltaic (PV) power

Fuel cellcogeneration
systemEco-friendly automotive energy technologies

Hydrogen technologies forEﬀective electricity/heat utilization

a low-carbon society

Hydrogencartridge for mobile use

Large-scalewind power

Clean energy vehicles, ships, planes, and trains(Fuel cells, hydrogen engine, electric, hybrid)Hydrogenstation

Next-generation fuel cell
(SOFC/GT, IGFC)(~60%HHV)

Large-scale PV
Coal

Biomass
energyGeothermal energy

Energy infrastructure
2

Oil
LNG
NuclearHydraulic power
Smart-grid supply network

Research Topics
Faculty of Engineering

02 Application of bio-fuels to SOFC
Biogas, generated by anaerobic fermentation of organic wastes, consists of 60%
CH4 and 40% CO2. In principle, biogas containing natural reforming agent, CO2, canbe directly fed into high temperature SOFC without pre-reformer to obtain electricity.
Therefore, hydrogen production and purification systems can be simplified leading
to cost cutback and enhancement of overall systemefficiency. Our group has demonstrated the long-term
stability of internal reforming SOFC running on biogas
using anode-supported single cell. At this moment,
thermomechanical reliability of internal reforming SOFC isbeing evaluated using a SOFC visualization system whichenables us to perform in-situ measurement of temperature
distribution in SOFC.
Visualization system of SOFC

Hydrogen Utilization Processes Laboratory

Kazunari SASAKI(Distinguished Professor)

Shunsuke TANIGUCHI

Yuya TACHIKAWA(Professor)(Associate Professor)

03 Development of metal supported SOFC

▶http://www.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/˜hup/index.html

We are also conducting research and development of metal supported SOFC cellusing heat-resistant stainless steel for substrate, aiming to create a highly-robust SOFC
cell which withstands thermal shock, fuel shortage, etc.

Advanced Fuel Cell Materials and Systems
Fuel cells are promising environmentally-compatible technologies for this century.
For technological development and their commercialization, however, various scientiﬁc
as well as engineering aspects should be clariﬁed and established. Our laboratory,
the Hydrogen Utilization Processes Laboratory, wishes to contribute to this promisingtechnological ﬁeld, based on more than 20 years of research experience in the ﬁeld offuel cell technology.
So far, we have built up the highest level research infrastructure in Japan, andour own facilities enable us to conduct a wide range of fuel cell R&D, from materials
to systems. Fuel cell fabrication equipment, facilities for electrical, thermal, andelectrochemical analysis including 55 fuel-cell evaluation systems and characterization
instruments, such as the highest-resolution FESEM-EDX and STEM-FIB systems
are available exclusively to our group members. At this moment, we address thedevelopment of novel electrode materials, establishment of system design criteria,
elucidation of mechanisms and processes and breakthroughs in technical issues
concerned.

04 Research on electrode materials and reaction processes for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells (PEFCs)
We are focusing on the development of novel electrocatalysts and formulationof electrode design for polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs), a promising energy
conversion system in hydrogen-related technologies. Recently, we have madeconsiderable progress in the development of a carbon-free electrocatalyst to
fundamentally reduce the problem of carbon corrosion.

05 Fundamentals of hydrogen related engineering
We wish to establish scientific principles of fuel cells
and related hydrogen technologies. Such activities include
defect chemistry on ionic, electronic, and molecularlevels; solid state electrochemistry; thermodynamics andtransport phenomena; electrode processes; acceleration
testing; and experimental techniques for electrochemical
characterization, advanced microscopy, and simulation.

01 Research on electrode materials and reaction processes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs)
One of the most appealing beneﬁts of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) over other types
of fuel cells is the fuel ﬂexibility: producing electricity from a variety of fuels, including
renewable biomass, natural gas, or even gasoline with less pollution-forming emissions.
Nevertheless, it is likely that various kinds of minor fuel impurities could cause fatal
degradation of cell performance or aﬀect overall SOFC system durability. Since 2008,
we have been involved in a national project supported by NEDO and are formulating theworld s ﬁrst database concerning the long-term impurity tolerance of SOFC.

Carbon-free electrocatalyst
for PEFC

In addition, humidifier-less technique is being developed for cost-

Faculty of Engineering

reduction. We built in a gas circulation and humidity recovery system

Fuel Cell System Laboratory

into a cell, with newly designed GDL which contains both hydrophobic
and hydrophilic MPL as shown in the photograph. These eﬀorts realize
a high performance PEFC without humidiﬁer.
Moreover, our analysis skill of impedance helps to grasp the heatsources in the SOFC during operation. The heat sources obtained isformulated as the thermal modeling, which can estimate temperatureand current distribution in unit cell. This result is accessible for the

Kohei ITO(Professor)

Tatsumi KITAHARA

Hironori NAKAJIMA(Associate Professor)(Assistant Professor)

control of thermal stress and the eﬀective use of electrodes. Contact
us: kohei@mech.kyushu-u.as.jp▶http://www.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/˜fcsl/index.html
Electrochemical energy converters, such as fuel cells andelectrolyzers, can work at higher eﬃciency and an excellent reliability
with lower noise. These outstanding features of fuel cells andelectrolyzers motivate us to utilize them as a main energy converter in
the next generation. Although commercialization is already underway,
a more cost-reduction, durability and performance are required to beaddressed. Against this background, our laboratory conducts R&D
for fuel cell and electrolyzer based on a mechanical engineering
approach as shown:

Fig.1 Temp. distribution in a PEEC with thin TCs.

● Elucidation of mass, heat and charge transport in cell：● Development of diagnostic and visualization techniques：● New proposals :optimization, sophisticated systems：
As a recent topic, our team succeeded to obtain 3D temperature
distribution with thin in-line thermocouples (TCs) with ﬁne positioning.
It figured out that the temperature under channel was higher thanthat under rib. This result connects to the understanding of water
behavior, leading to appropriate water management.

Fig.2 Tailor-made MPLs fabricated on a GDL.

3

Research Topics
methods to understand and design materials and lubrication for

Faculty of Engineeringhydrogen. However, little is known about eﬀects of gaseous hydrogen

Tribology Laboratory

in tribology.
Since tribological phenomena include a number of different
phenomena according to applications and conditions, our project
includes a number of different sub topics. They include sliding
friction and wear of materials used in bearings, valves and seals,rolling contact fatigue of materials, fretting wear at contacts underreciprocation with small amplitudes. The materials being tested include

Joichi SUGIMURA(Professor)

Kazuyuki YAGI

Hiroyoshi TANAKA(Associate Professor)(Assistant Professor)

steels and other metals and alloys, carbon-based coatings, polymers,
elastomers and ceramics. Experiments are conducted in different
gas environments including hydrogen, argon, nitrogen and air, and▶http://tribo1.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/TR/index-j.html

also with materials exposed to high pressure hydrogen. In order toTribology in High Pressure Hydrogen

understand tribology in hydrogen, it is necessary to understand the

Tribology, a term born in the UK in 1966, is a name of the ﬁeld of thenear solid surfaces, and the subsequent changes in chemical andscience and technology of various phenomena occurring between two

mechanical properties of surface layers. We continue to study theseinteracting surfaces in relative motion, and of related subjects andfundamental mechanisms in order to contribute to future tribology

practices* such as lubrication technology for reducing friction andtechnology to ensure the reliability of hydrogen systems.

behavior of hydrogen, chemical reactions, and transportation at andwear.

★ from Glossary of OECDWe are studying tribology in hydrogen. It is well known that
tribological phenomena are often affected by the surrounding gas.
If the gas is hydrogen, surface phenomena are quite different fromthose in air, because it does not contain oxygen and water, or
contains only very small amounts of oxidative substances that are
known to form protective films on surfaces. It is not only chemical
reactions on the surfaces that depend on environmental gas, but
a number of physical and chemical processes occurring at or near
the surfaces, adsorption, diffusion, deformation, wear and adhesion
depends on the gas. Machines to produce, store, transfer and utilizehydrogen have a number of machine elements including bearings,
valves and seals which are exposed to hydrogen. In order to ensure
their long and reliable operation, it is necessary to establish thedeveloping ﬁlling simulations for when the onboard tanks of fuel cellvehicles (FCV) are refilled with hydrogen, aiming to establish the
optimal refilling method. In anticipation of various future hydrogen
applications, we are also conducting research on thermophysicalproperties of mixed fluids containing hydrogen. When mixed withother ﬂuids behaves completely diﬀerently to pure ﬂuids, especiallyin the supercritical region, with changes varying according to thecomposition of the mixture. Based on the precise thermophysicalproperty measurement methods we have developed to date, our aim
is to elucidate state surfaces.

Faculty of Engineering
Thermoﬂuid Physics Laboratory

Naoya SAKODA(Associate Professor)

Yutaku KITA
(Assistant Professor)▶https://www.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/˜heat/

Thermophysical properties of highpressure hydrogen
If we are to create a hydrogen society, it is vital to understandaccurately the thermophysical properties of hydrogen, as thisfundamental information will form the intellectual base for all otherwork. In the Thermofluid Physics Laboratory, based on recognizedneeds in hydrogen infrastructure, including hydrogen stations,
we engage in high-precision measurements of the thermophysicalproperties of hydrogen in temperature ranges from -40 to 500 ºC
and ultra-high pressure ranges up to 100 MPa, in order to ascertain
such properties as PVT properties (temperature-pressure-density or
specific volume relationship), viscosity, and thermal conductivity. In
addition to clarifying the state surface under such varying conditions,
we have also formulated an equation of state and correlations basedon the data we have obtained. Equations of state can be used to
calculate various properties using thermodynamic relation equations,but as this requires repeated complex calculations, we are developinga thermophysical property database capable of easily calculating
thermophysical properties for arbitrary states. We are also working
to expand this database to include all aspects of hydrogen stations,Hydrogen reﬁlling simulation software for FCV onboard hydrogen tanks,
including the entire hydrogen station

粘性係数測定用
Sensor module for
センサモジュール
viscosity
measurement

Apparatus for measuring PVTx property and viscosity of hydrogenmixed ﬂuids

4Research Topics
Faculty of Engineering
Hydrogen Storage Systems Laboratory

Hisao MATSUNAGA(Professor)

Yuhei OGAWA(Assistant Professor)

Aiming to realize the constructionof safe, low-cost hydrogen storage,transportation, and supply systems
In hydrogen utilization systems, various metallic components are
exposed to hydrogen gas environment, in which hydrogen atoms
penetrate into materials and thereby cause a ductility loss and strength

Fig. 1 Fatigue testing machine for 120 MPa hydrogengas environment

degradation. The phenomenon is known as hydrogen embrittlement(HE). In order to achieve both the safety and cost-reduction of thesystems, it is essential to deepen understanding of HE.
We are contributing to the realization of safer and lower-cost hydrogenstorage, transportation, and supply systems through the following
researches:
・Elucidation of hydrogen embrittlement mechanism in various
materials
・Exploring hydrogen-resistant materials
・Creation of database on HE properties of various materials（a）In air・Establishment of reasonable criteria for materials selection
・Proposal of strength design guidelines

crack propagation analysis in a hydrogen gas environment, andclarifying the effect of hydrogen through observation of fracturesurfaces.

Faculty of Engineering
Solid Mechanics Laboratory● Clarifying the effect of hydrogen on delayed fracture
phenomena▶http://www.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/˜solid/

Shigeru HAMADA（b）In 95MPa hydrogen gas

Fig. 2 Ductility loss in the tensile test of austenitic stainless steel SUS304
in hydrogen gas

Using a single-crystalline Fe-3wt%Si alloy as a model alloythat facilitates observation of the phenomena, we investigatedthe macroscopic and microscopic features of hydrogen-induced
crack growth in delayed fracture propagation. Delayed fracture
experiments were conducted in air and in hydrogen. The roleof hydrogen in delaying hydrogen-induced fracture propagation
was clarified by comparing the characteristics various fractures,
including the fracture surface and the microscopic deformationinduced at time of fracture.

Clarifying the eﬀect ofhydrogen on material
strength and safety

In order to ensure the long-term safe useof equipment that uses hydrogen, one of
the most important challenges is to evaluate the eﬀect of hydrogengas on the fatigue strength of metals. It is anticipated that the useof materials such as low-cost carbon steel and low-alloy steel will
be expanded, but in order to utilize such inexpensive materials in arational manner it is necessary to identify their fracture mechanisms.
That is why we are investigating the fatigue behavior of common
low-carbon steels in a hydrogen gas environment to clarify the eﬀectof hydrogen on material strength and safety.

(Professor)● Elucidating fatigue crack propagation mechanism inhydrogen gas and its applications

10µm

Our aim is to clarify the fatigue crack propagation mechanism andestablish a rational evaluation method based on the unique fatigue fracturesurface morphology of hydrogen gas. The results we have obtained havemade it possible to rationally explain the frequency dependence of fatigue
crack propagation, which must be taken into account in hydrogen gas.

3µm

Quasi-cleavage fracture surface appearing on fracture surface in a hydrogen gas atmosphere
Directionof fracture
き裂進展方向● Clarifying the effect of hydrogen on small crack
propagation behavior
Focusing on small crack propagation behavior, which accounts
for the great majority of fatigue life, we are working to clarify theeﬀect of hydrogen. In this research we have sought to ﬁnd design
conditions that enable the safe use of equipment, through small

in air
大気中

5 µm

In hydrogen gas
水素ガス中
atmosphere

5 µm

Hydrogen-induced changes in fracture behavior under the same material and mechanical loading conditions

5Research Topics
experiments at elevated pressures. We are investigating how the additionof hydrogen can be used to improve combustion efficiency and reduce CO2
emissions in internal combustion engines that run on hydrocarbon fuels andwe have found that the addition of hydrogen to natural gas (almost entirely
methane) increases the flame speed. We are also using 3D CFD simulations
to clarify the basic characteristics of turbulent hydrogen flames, aiming tocontribute to the development of turbulent combustion models. In addition,
towards the development of hydrogen gas turbine combustion technologies, weare conducting research on hydrogen burners to clarify the ﬂame stabilization
characteristics and devise methods of controlling nitrogen oxide emissions.

Faculty of Engineering
Reactive Gas Dynamics Laboratory

Toshiaki KITAGAWA(Professor)

E. C. OKAFOR(Associate Professor)▶http://www.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/˜rgd/index-j.html

Characteristics of hydrogen combustion

Hydrogen ﬂame
Fig. 1 Flame Visualization by Laser Tomography

Reactive gas dynamics is the study of a wide range of reactive ﬂows, suchas combustion. At the Reactive Gas Dynamics Laboratory, we are engaged ina broad range of research in combustion, ranging from fundamental researchthrough to applications. Hydrogen is a carbon-free fuel that emits no CO2 whenburned, making the development of hydrogen combustion technology relevantto the realization of a decarbonized society. In relation to explosion hazards,
the wide range of flammable concentration of hydrogen in air, and the highﬂame speed of hydrogen mixtures are already well-known characteristics ofhydrogen. However, when considering the combustion of hydrogen as a fuelin engines or gas turbines, or explosions caused by hydrogen leaks, there arestill many questions left unanswered regarding the fundamental combustion
characteristics of hydrogen. The clarification of the flame propagation
characteristics of hydrogen is important for improving the efficiency of
combustion systems fueled with hydrogen, controlling exhaust emissions,and predicting or reducing damage caused in the event of an explosion. One
challenge, for example, is that due to the high temperature of a hydrogen
flame, large volumes of nitrogen oxides (NOx) are emitted during hydrogen/air combustion, which have an impact on the environment. The control of such
nitrogen oxides requires the development of hydrogen-compatible combustors,
given that hydrogen has combustion characteristics that are different
from hydrocarbon fuels. It is therefore important to clarify and understandhydrogen combustion behavior and the characteristics of emissions from suchcombustors, from the perspective of basic research.
It is with this aim that we are conducting experiments and numericalsimulations on hydrogen jets and premixed hydrogen ﬂames using a constantvolume combustion chamber which is capable of performing turbulence

Propane ﬂame

Fig. 2 Comparison of Hydrogen Flame with Hydrocarbon Flame

Experiment
Simulation
Hydrogen jet

Experiment
Simulation
Combustion

Fig. 3 Hydrogen Jet and its Combustion
Laminarburning velocity cm/s
層流燃焼速度200

Hydrogen/ methane / Air ﬂame
水素／メタン／空気火炎

150
100
50
0

0
0.0

0.5

1.0

Hydrogenmole fraction in fuel
燃料中水素モル分率

Fig. 4 Increase in Laminar Burning Velocity with Hydrogen Mole Fraction in the FuelFig. 5 Turbulent Hydrogen Flame (from 3D DNS)

nuclear magnetic resonancemeasurements of the dissolvedhydrogen gas in the materials.
To establish material design
guidelines for high-pressurehydrogen sealing materials, weare continuously discussing therelationship between fracture
behavior of the materials andtheir composition or molecular
structure.

Faculty of Engineering
Advanced Hydrogen Materials Laboratory

Inﬂuence of High Pressure
Hydrogen Gas on Rubber
and Polymeric Materials.
Rubber and polymeric materials are used as
Shin NISHIMURA
sealing devices of high-pressure hydrogen gas(Professor)
in equipment for hydrogen energy systems. For
example, rubber O-rings for hydrogen gas sealing
can be broken by high-pressure hydrogen exposure, as shown in the ﬁgure
below.
In our laboratory, we are going to clarify the fracture phenomenon ofrubber and polymeric materials exposed to high-pressure hydrogen gas. In
order to clarify the inﬂuence of dissolved hydrogen on the fracture behaviorof the materials, we have been performing thermal desorption analyses andThree fracture modes of rubber O -ring after
repeating high-pressure hydrogen gas exposure.

・Encapsulation of Pt into nano-channels to suppress Pt aggregation, leading
to high activity and durability
・Graphitization of carbon surface, leading to increased tolerance to carbon
oxidation
・Investigation of electrode degradation at higher temperature operation
・Investigation of degradation mechanism by In-situ SEM/TEM

Graduate School of Engineering
Advanced Hydrogen Energy System Lab

Pt
Akari HAYASHI(Professor)

Fuel Cell Research for Vehicles

50 nm

In our laboratory, fuel cells and related technologies for FCVs are focusedon. We have been particularly working on novel electrocatalysts, which play amost important role for fuel cell performance, with following approaches.

Carbon Materials with Nano-channels

6Research Topics
applications. Water/steam electrolysis is one of the major topics fromInternational Institute for CarbonNeutral Energy Research (I2CNER)

a view point of utilizing renewable energies.

Electrochemical Energy Conversion Research Division

Proton conducting oxides

Hiroshige Matsumoto(Professor)

Surface-proton conducting
nanoparticles

Hydrogen production and energy
conversion via electrochemistryElectrochemistry plays an important roles for conversion between
electric and chemical energies, e.g. fuel cells and electrolysis.
Research on solid state ion conductors have been conducted.
Namely, proton-conducting oxides that operate at 400 〜 800 ℃ andmetal oxide nanoparticles which conducts protons on the surface arestudied for the fundamental understanding as well as for technologicalHydrogen embrittlement research has a long history, and much is already known aboutmaterials that are resistant to embrittlement and how to use materials. The conventional
approach is to control the crystallographic structure (microstructure) of metals. At theAdvanced Energy Materials Thrust Unit we are conducting research into the preventionof hydrogen embrittlement by taking a different approach from such establishedmethods, or in other words by preventing hydrogen from penetrating metals, which is
the mechanism by which embrittlement is first initiated. Our method involves adding
impurity gases to hydrogen as a means of preventing hydrogen from adsorbing on metal
surfaces. Using this method it is extremely important to elucidate how hydrogen andimpurities interact with metal surfaces, which is why
we are engaging in joint research with theoreticalchemists. This research has also developed into joint
studies with chemists specializing in catalysis andresearchers of friction and wear. We will need to use
new technologies if we are to realize a carbon neutral
society, and it is anticipated that technologies thatmake use of high-temperature hydrogen to generate
electricity and the production of hydrogen at hightemperatures will become mainstream in the future.
That is why we are conducting material strength tests
in hydrogen at high temperatures in order to evaluate
properties and clarify the mechanisms that degrade
material strength in hydrogen at high temperatures.
We are working with material physicists on joint
Test equipment for material
strength tests in hydrogen at 600℃
research to identify this mechanism.

International Institute for CarbonNeutral Energy Research

Advanced Energy Materials Thrust Unit

Masanobu KUBOTA

Basic scientiﬁc research into
enhancement of strength andreliability of steel materials
for hydrogen utilization(Professor)
Various metals are an essential component of
any scenario involving the utilization of hydrogen, from manufacture, through totransportation, storage and use. However, hydrogen penetrates metals, causing aphenomenon known as hydrogen embrittlement, by which the strength of the metal isdegraded. To respond to this issue we are engaging in research on the mitigation ofhydrogen embrittlement to ensure the safety of devices that use hydrogen. We areengaged in various international joint research projects and cross-disciplinary studies.
For example, together with the University of Illinois and Seattle University in the U.S. weare conducting research on the construction of a theoretical model capable of predictinghydrogen embrittlement. Together with the University of Göttingen we are studying
how materials ﬁrst start to fracture in the presence of hydrogen, based on nano-level
observations. With a Norwegian research institution and the Norwegian University of
Science and Technology we are engaged in research into hydrogen pipeline materials.

sustainable precursor. The materials properties such as nitrogen

International Research Centerfor Hydrogen Energy

content and porosity can be tailored by varying the synthesis steps,
providing us with detailed insights into the catalyst performance.
Using these materials as model electrocatalysts, we have madeFunctional Carbon Nanomaterials
for Next-Generation Hydrogen and
Fuel Cell Related Technologies

insights into the processes occurring during synthesis and thedegradation mechanisms using e.g. high temperature X-ray absorption
spectroscopy and near ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy. In other work, we have developed superhydrophobic
fluorinated carbon nanomaterials which can significantly improve

The hydrogen economy will play a major

Stephen Lyth(Associate Professor)

the performance of polymer electrolyte fuel cells when used in thepart in the decarbonization of society, but

microporous layer, by preventing flooding at high current density.

the scaling up of related technologies will

Finally, our carbon materials can be used for hydrogen storage, andnecessitate the extraction of vast quantities

of critical raw materials. Ultimately, this means that

we have already surpassed DOE targets for automotive applications,sustainablewith total hydrogen uptake of 11 wt% at 77 K and 10 MPa, due to thehydrogen technologies could be reliant on inherently unsustainable

extremely large surface area.

materials. Polymer electrolyte fuel cells use platinum to increase theefficiency of the oxygen reduction reaction at the cathode. Global
deployment of the current generation of polymer electrolyte fuel cells
will require unfeasibly large amounts of platinum. Therefore, platinumfree electrocatalysts are preferable for next generation fuel cells.
We have developed unique platinum-free electrocatalysts based on
metal-decorated nitrogen-doped carbon foams (Me-N-C). These canbe manufactured cheaply via a simple process using ethanol as a7

Research Topics

Masamichi NISHIHARA(Associate Professor)

Next-Generation Fuel Cell
Research Center: NEXT-FC

we are developing high gas barrier PEMs to extend the lifetime of PEMs.

Research on the enhancement of
the performance and durabilityof polymer materials for fuelcells and water electrolysis cells

polymer electrolyte materials in the catalyst layer (ionomers) need highThis idea has been already conﬁrmed, and the developed PEMs showed
longer lifetime than Nafion, a standard PEM. On the other hand, thegas permeability to make the gases accessed to the catalyst eﬀectively.
Based on this idea, we are developing high gas permeable ionomers to
drastically increase gas accessibility to the catalyst causing high fuel cell
performance. The high gas permeable ionomer has also showed higher
performance than conventional ionomer.

Various polymer materials are used ashigh performance and durable polymer
高分子電解質材料の高性能化、高耐久化
electrolyte materials

components of polymer electrolyte fuel cells(PEFCs) and water electrolyzers. Especially,e-

発電Power generation

polymer electrolyte materials, which work as ionic conductors, havestrong inﬂuence on the performance and durability of hydrogen energy

H2

devices. For further spread of hydrogen energy devices, we are focusing

O2

H+

Fuel electrode
燃料極

on the polymer electrolyte materials to enhance the efficiency and

触媒層
Catalyst layer

空気極Airelectrode
H2O

durability of the fuel cell and to lower the cost of the device production.
Serious technical problem of polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs),

電解質膜

which is one of the polymer electrolyte materials, is their durability.

Polymer electrolyte
membranes (PEMs)

Ionomers
イオノマー

高分子電解質Polymer
electrolyte materials

Chemical decomposition of PEMs is caused by oxygen penetration
through the PEMs from cathode to anode. On the basis of this mechanism,

電解質膜

Also, with regard to metal catalysts used as electrocatalysts in fuelInternational Research Centerfor Hydrogen Energy

cells and water electrolysis cells, by conducting in-situ observations
in a high-temperature gas atmosphere, we aim to clarify the reaction

Advanced Devices

processes and degradation mechanisms of catalysts in gas atmospheres
such as oxidizing and reducing atmospheres.

Microstructural analysis ofhydrogen materials using
electron microscopy
Junko MATSUDA(Associate Professor)Highgas barrier PEMs
ガスバリア性

Using mainly a high resolution electron
microscope we engage in structural analysis
of a broad range of materials relating to the

manufacture, storage and use of hydrogen, including electrode andelectrolytic materials used in fuel cells and water electrolysis cells,
and hydrogen storage materials.
In particular, we aim to clarify the degradation mechanisms offuel cells and contribute to the development of high-performancematerials, by identifying the nano-level structural and compositionalchanges in polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) electrocatalysts,
and the structural and state changes in solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)
electrocatalysts and electrode/electrolyte interfaces both before andCrystal structural change of a nickel
catalyst in methane atmosphere

after power generation tests.

Latest text book on

Hydrogen Energy Engineering: A Japanese Perspective(ca. 600 pages) Just published from Springer (2016).
Editors: Sasaki, K., Li, H.-W., Hayashi, A., Yamabe, J., Ogura, T., Lyth, S.M. (Eds.)

The first book to describe not only the fundamental principles of hydrogenenergy, but also including the latest research and development trends towardpractical applications.
Equips readers to understand the state of the art of research and development inhydrogen energy technologies.
Compiles contributions by industry experts, as well as active scientists in theworldʼs largest hydrogen energy research center at Kyushu University, Japan.
(http://www.springer.com/la/book/9784431560401)

8

Researchers ProﬁlesInternational Researchers, Visiting Professors and Research Professors
The hydrogen research center at Kyushu University Ito Campus, equipped with a state-of-the-art facilities, is one of the most advanced
research centers in the world, being supported from a wide range of talented researchers.
The aim of our research and development is to solve the global warming as a world common problem and furthermore to maintain new energy
instead of an oil resource, by realizing hydrogen energy society in a near future.
As a part of this eﬀort, we continue to send out information around to over the world and regularly invite talented researchers to join us, built
an international partnerships for joint research.
Fukuoka is well known as one of the most comfortable Asian cities and we will assure comfortable living environment and an enough support
by our dedicated staﬀs for international researchers.
Currently, research and development on hydrogen materials and fuel cells are being conducted in several major countries around the world,and some technologies have been migrating from the demonstration phase to practical applications.
We are actively inviting International researchers and share information with the outside world, so that the world s best database is utilized torealize a hydrogen-based society and is ﬁrmly established in accordance with international standards.

○International collaborating professors and researchers

Prof. Jader Ferreira Furtado Filho■Field of Research:

Metal and alloy fatigue inhydrogen atmospheres■Original Aﬃliation:

AIR LIQUIDE CRCD, France

Prof. Petros A.Sofronis■Field of Research:

Hydrogen embrittlement ofmaterials■Original Aﬃliation:

University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign,U.S.A.
International Institute for CarbonNeutral Energy Research,
Kyushu University

Prof. Darrell SocieDr. Jussi Solin

Prof. Robert O.Ritchie■Field of Research:

Fatigue of metallic materials■Original Aﬃliation:

VTT Technical Research Centreof Finland, Finland

Dr. Brian P.Somerday■Field of Research:

Effect of hydrogen on metallic
materials■Original Aﬃliation:

Sandia National Laboratories,
U.S.A.

Prof. Ian Robertson■Field of Research:■Field of Research:■Original Aﬃliation:■Original Aﬃliation:

Mechanical behavior ofmaterials, fracture mechanics
University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, U.S.A.

Prof. John A. Kilner

Materials Science and Engineering
Hydrogen Structural Materials
University of Wisconsin, U.S.A
International Institute for CarbonNeutral Energy Research,
Kyushu University

Prof. Ludwig J. Gauckler■Field of Research:■Field of Research:■Original Aﬃliation:■Original Aﬃliation:

Solid state ionics

Imperial College London, UK

Ceramic materials

Swiss Federal Institute ofTechnology Zurich, Switzerland

Dr. George Harrington■Field of Research:
Solid state ionics■Original Aﬃliation:

RWTH Aachen University,
Germany

9■Field of Research:

Fatigue and fracture of materials,
and fracture mechanisms■Original Aﬃliation:

University of California
Berkeley, U.S.A.

Prof. Reiner Kirchheim■Field of Research:

Research on metallic materials■Original Aﬃliation:

University of Gottingen,Germany

Prof. Harry L. Tuller■Field of Research:
Mixed conductors■Original Aﬃliation:

Massachusetts Institute ofTechnology, U.S.A.

Visiting Prof. Jennifer L.M. Rupp
■Field of Research:

Fuel cell systems, Ceramicmaterials■Original Aﬃliation:

Technical University of Munich,GermanyNext-Generation Fuel Cell Research Center

Next-Generation Fuel Cell Research Center▶http://fc.kyushu-u.ac.jp

The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is the most efficient of all fuel cells thatcan be used for clean and highly eﬃcient energy generation systems, andis attracting attention as a revolutionary solution for energy problems andglobal warming. Despite this, there are various challenges that need to be
overcome before we can realize full-ﬂedged commercialization of SOFC andother next-generation fuel cells, challenges that will require improvements indurability, reliability and performance. This center was established to createa fast-track to overcoming those challenges, as a joint industry-academia
research hub that will realize development and early commercialization of
next-generation fuel cells. This will be done in close cooperation between

Director

Kazunari SASAKI

Deputy Director

Tatsumi ISHIHARA

Deputy Director

Shunsuke TANIGUCHI

Kyushu University, which is intensively engaged in fuel cell research, andvarious developing companies. (As of January 1, 2012)【Functions of the Center】○ The preparation of rooms for researchers andlaboratories that can be used as industrial
research sub-oﬃces (with already establishedsecurity controls).
○ The provision of state-of-the-art analyzing
equipment to enable thevisualizationoffuel cells on atomic and nano levels in a
nondestructive way.
○ The provision of one-stop solutions, frombasic research, improvement in durability
and reliability, expansion of applicability,
and systems technology development totroubleshooting.
○ The implementation of joint research withmanagement of confidentiality protection
and intellectual property rights, offering
opportunities for joint research with multiple
researchers from Kyushu University.
○ Making opportunities available for technologicalexchange between participating corporations,
aimed at public project proposals.
○ The oﬀering of technology workshops for researchers and technicians from participating corporations, and support for working people
who seek to obtain doctorate degrees.
○ The provision of opportunities to participate in basic research projects with researchers overseas.
Support for the establishment of a global network that anticipates future business operations abroad, and the securing of professional
personnel abroad.
○ Identifying the needs of the industrial community, and reﬂecting those needs in the management policy of the center, as decided by
the Center Council, which will consist of executives from major participating corporations, policy makers from the national and local
governments and key faculty members of Kyushu University.
○ Prioritizing the handling of various support measures based on the Green Asia International Strategic Comprehensive Special Zone
program approved by the Cabinet Secretariat.

【Center Building】
This center has been constructed as part of the
Next‒Generation Fuel Cell Research Facility project,
proposed by Kyushu University and adopted by the
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industryʼs Innovation
Center Establishment Assistance Program (“Technology
Bridge development program). (As of June 30, 2011)

International Institute for Carbon-Neutral Energy Research

10

Next-Generation Fuel Cell Research CenterResearch Facilities at Ito Campus / Safety Measures

Research Facilities at Ito Campus
Kyushu University has constructed a world-leading educational and research center, with over 300 researchers and graduate
students and more than 15,000m2 of research space at the Ito Hydrogen Campus. Taking advantage of the 21st Century COE Program,
Ito Campus plays a central role in the universityʼs Energy Campus concept. In addition, in collaboration with the Fukuoka Strategy
Conference for Hydrogen Energy, an academic-industrial promotion organization with more than 700 member companies and businesses,
we have created an environment where young researchers can closely interact and exchange ideas and information with industry
engineers. The campus is also a place where young researchers can experience various technological innovations, and where the usesof fuel cell technology can actually be demonstrated, making the best use of all the facilities on campus, including the hydrogen station.

International Institute for Carbon-Neutral
Energy Research（I2CNER）
Next-Generation Fuel Cell Research Center

International Research Center for Hydrogen Energy（Residential Fuel cell system）

Future Energy Demonstration Facility

High-pressure H2 Strength
Testing Lab.

Fuel cell evaluation laboratory

High-pressure H2 Exposure
Testing Lab

Research Center for Hydrogen
Industrial Use and Storage (HYDROGENIUS)

Hydrogen station

Wind power generator

Safety Measures
At Ito Campus, while working on various research projects related tohydrogen energy, due attention is also given to the safe handling of ﬂammablehydrogen gas. Facilities so far installed include centralized hydrogen supply
and exhaust systems, and a system of sensors and alarms. We also havevarious safety measures in place against gas leakage, such as a mechanism
to shut off the hydrogen gas supply at the outlet of the hydrogen storage
cylinders in the event of a gas leak alarm, as well as a cut-oﬀ mechanism forthe power supply to the experimental instrumentation.
Our safety management system also integrates all possible safeguards inhuman resources and other non-facility related aspects. I work closely witha full-time safety manager in the Division for High-Pressure Gas Safety of theOﬃce for the Promotion of Safety and Health, and qualiﬁed persons with longterm experience who are specialized in high-pressure gas production andmaintenance are stationed 24 hours a day as safety technicians. Students,
faculty members and other university staff members who use the facilitiesof the International Research Center for Hydrogen Energy are obliged toattend regular training programs on hydrogen safety and we strive to develop
human resources capable of putting safety ﬁrst in their research activities.
Another tool used to create a safe environment for experiments is the nearmiss report, which must be submitted whenever a minor incident occurs.
This information is shared by all parties concerned, and countermeasures are
discussed at monthly meetings for safety and health.

11

Safety training course for researchers and students inadvance of experimental works

Department of Hydrogen Energy Systems
Department of Hydrogen Energy Systems
The Hydrogen Energy Systems Course was ﬁrst oﬀered in the Graduate School of Engineering at Kyushu University in April 2010. The ﬁrst of
its kind in the world, the course oﬀers a consistent education in science and technology related to hydrogen energy. For the realization of a lowcarbon society, this course aims to develop researchers and engineers who will master the basic scientiﬁc principles of environmentally-friendly
energy technologies, including hydrogen energy technology.
Mechanical engineering is the basis for energy system design. Since hydrogen is produced and used by conversion of energy resources,
it is essential to understand the processes of chemical reactions. It is also necessary to understand the design of materials such as various
metals, polymers and ceramics to be used in energy systems. In addition, knowledge regarding safety is required to promote public acceptanceof hydrogen technology as safe and secure. Since these ﬁelds of study are common to the energy ﬁeld, the Hydrogen Energy Systems Course
takes an interdisciplinary approach to provide an education in energy technology focusing on hydrogen energy, while also touching on cuttingedge research and development.
General and Global courses are available in the masterʼs program, and the Advanced Global Course is available in the doctoral program. Under
the admission, curriculum and diploma policies shown below, the courses present a clear path to develop the talent needed to lead a hydrogenenergy society. From ﬁscal 2021 a self-recommendation type entrance examination has been initiated that accepts students other than thosefrom the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The students of the Hydrogen Energy Systems Course in the doctoral program can request ﬁnancial assistance to enable them to concentrateon their studies. Moreover, we can help students to build their careers together with the Fukuoka Strategy Conference for Hydrogen Energy.

Master s Program

Doctoral Program
Global Course

General Course

Advanced Global Course

Graduation Policy (Exit)

Graduation Policy (Exit)●Experts in hydrogen energy●Mechanical engineers and researchers who
understand the basic scientiﬁc principles of●Researchers with broad overview and abilityenergy technology, such as functional materials,

for independent research projects

chemical process and safety engineering.

●Researchers and professional engineers who●Engineers and researchers who are capable ofcan become leaders in a low-carbon society

working internationally in a wide range of ﬁelds,●Opinion leaders in energy policy

including the environment and energy.
●Active generalist engineers

Career Support

Curriculum Policy■Develop mechanical engineers and researchers
who understand materials and processes

Curriculum Policy■Research based on the world s leading researchfacilities and circumstances■Education to improve global perspectives andleadership ability

・Production, storage and use of hydrogen・Advanced subjects related to the themodynamics and mechanics of materials
・The study of functional/structural materials, and electrochemistry
・Energy policy and the management of technology

・Support for international internships (study abroad)■Education to improve global perspectives andcommunication skills

・Lectures provided by foreign lecturers in English
・Presentation opportunities in English at international conferences

・Lectures provided by foreign instructore in English■Practical Education

・Poster session in English at international conferences, etc.

・Education provided by several professors with industrial experiences■Practical Education

・Research presentation opportunities to industry engineers, with the・Education provided by several professors with industrial experiencescollaboration of the Fukuoka Strategy Conference for Hydrogen Energy

Admission
examination
in English

Activity Support●Students who have ﬁnished the master s
program of the Hydrogen Energy Systems
Course, or other science or engineeringcourses●Both students and industrial engineers whowant to become leaders or professionals in thearea of eco-friendly energy

Foreign students who have graduatedfrom science or engineering
departments of foreign universities●Students who have graduated from science or engineering
departments, such as mechanical engineering●Students who want to become engineers or researchers in thearea of eco-friendly energy

Admission Policy (Entrance)
For more information regarding the new courses, please visit
the Department of Mechanical Engineering website.

Admission Policy (Entrance)

http://www.mech.kyushu-u.ac.jp/index-j.html

12Department of Hydrogen Energy Systems○ Overview of hydrogen energy education and outline of course oﬀerings

Venture Engineer
Consultant

Business Manager

Entrepreneur
Policymaker

Assoc. Prof.

GlobalProfessor

Company
Researcher

Leaders■ WPI Program(I2CNER)■ PD in Collaborating Institutes

Engineer ■ International Review Process

PhD course in Department ofHydrogen Energy Systems■ Advanced Hydrogen Energy Research■ Lectures in English / International Internship■ Management / Policy■ International InternshipHydrogen Energy Science

Energy Policy

Management■ Competitive RA Support■ Support for International
Master course in Department of Hydrogen Energy Engineering
Experiences(Thermodynamics, Strength of materials, Electrochemistry,
Hydrogen Energy Systems■ Hydrogen Engineering

Materials science, Safety management)■ International Recruitment○ Lectures to be held
Subject

Key Word

Introduction to Hydorgen Engineering

Hydrogen production、Hydrogen storage、Hydrogen utilization、Elemental theory（Electrochemical process）、Electrochemistry、Measurement、Hydrogen physicalcharacteristics、Mechanical design、Structural material、Functional material

Hydrogen Production System

Hydrogen production、Fossil fuel、Renewable energy、Carbon dioxide emissions、Energy carrier

Hydrogen Storage System

Hydrogen energy、Hydrogen transfer、Hydrogen storage、Advanced systems

Hydrogen Utilization Process

Chemical thermodynamics、Functional material、Electrochemistry and applications、Fuel Cell

Hydrogen Utilization System

Trade oﬀ、Optimization、Total eﬃciency、Safety

Hydrogen Energy Society

Technology development、Energy history、Social implementation、Practicalization

Safety Management High Pressure Gas Safety
Engineering

High pressure gas、High pressure gas equipment、Safety management、Thermodynamics、Strength materials、Fulid mechanics

Fluid Physics

Viscous ﬂuid、Laminar ﬂow、Turbulence、Boundary layer、Turbulence model、Internal
ﬂow、Jet ﬂow、Backstream

Clean Energy Technologies

Heat conduction、Boiling、Condensation、Surface tension

Tribology

Tribology、Friction、Wear、Lubrication、Surface、Contact

Advanced Heat And Mass Trasfer

Heat and mass trasfer、Condensation、Boiling、Radiation

Reactive Gas Dynamics

Reactive Gas、Combustion、Flame

Mechanical Vibration

Free vibration、Foeced vibration

Mechanical Acoustics

Free vibration、Foeced vibration、Noise、Noise control

Computational Mechanics

Machine learning、Optimization

Fuel Cell Engineering

Fundamentals of Fuel cell、Fuel cell eﬃciency、Irreversible loss、PEFC、DMFC、SOFC、
Fuel supply、Reforming、Hydrogen production

Fracture Mechanics

Crack、elasticity、Plasticity、Fatigue

Fatigue and Fracture of Materials

Fracture、Metal fatigue、Crack、Strength evaluation、Damage accident、SS model

Advanced Energy Engineering Ⅰ

Ceramics、Inorganic structural material、Inorganic functional material、Ceramic
processing、Micro device、Sensor、Fuel cell

Advanced Energy Engineering Ⅱ

Tribology、Environment、Energy、Hydrogen、Surface and Interface

Structural Materials in Hydrogen Energy System

Hydrogen embrittlement、Strength design

Advenced Materials in Hydrogen Energy System

Organic chemistry、High molecular、Energy device

Hydrogen ElectrochemistryElectrochemistry、Energy transformation、Electrode and Catalyst material

Fuel Cell System

Fuel cell、Electrochemistry、Measurement

Advanced Tribology

Tribology、Contact、Lubrication、Materials、Chemistry、Environment

Advanced Thermal Science and Engineering

Thermal properties、Heat ﬂow、Eﬀective energy、Low temperature engineering、Refrigeration and Air
conditioning、Adsorption、Micro-nano processing、Measurement

Energy Policy

Low carbon energy、National strategy、New energy policy、Venture development

Technology Management

Commercialization strategy、Business strategy、Group discussion

13

Visiting the Campus and Other Facilities
The goal of the Hydrogen Project of Kyushu University is to realize a hydrogen-utilizing society, and when accomplished this will bring about majorchanges to social systems. Given that the mission of the university is to improve public acceptance as well as to develop human resources and to
conduct R&D, we actively welcome people from outside to come and visit. We are also involved in activities to promote correct understanding abouthydrogen energy and broaden awareness about what the hydrogen energy society of the future will look like. These activities include the Hydrogen
Society Showroom, where visitors can learn about advances in hydrogen energy-related technologies such as fuel cells, and also the Kyushu Ito
Energy Information webpage that shares information about energy utilization at Ito Campus.
We also hold public lectures for school students of all ages and members of the public, sharing information about hydrogen as part of our eﬀorts
to be a university that is open to the community. To date we have welcomed more than 65,000 visitors since the launch of the Kyushu University
Hydrogen Project. Starting with Their Imperial Highnesses the Crown Prince and Crown Princess (now Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress)
these visitors include state ministers, parliamentarians and government oﬃcials from Japan and overseas, representatives of regional and local
governments, junior-high and high school students engaged in extracurricular activities, local residents, visitors to our open campus, university
alumni, business leaders, overseas administrative oﬃcials, and researchers.

○No. of visitors and no. of visits to the Kyushu University Hydrogen Project・Since the launch of the project a total of 3,700
visits by 65,000 people have been made.
・Most visitors have been from companies, followedby school visits.
・In the busiest year for visits, on average there were30 visitors each day.
・International visitors have come from 15 countries.

AA headline
headline project,
project, making
making aa contribution
contribution
toto Kyushu
Kyushu University
University as
as aa whole!
whole!

○Photos from visits

Ms. Kanna KOUZU, Representative,
FORUM Energy Think Together

Professors from MIT

Japan Business Federation

Italian Ambassador to Japan

Visitors to Kyushu University
Energy Week

Industry tour organizedby Fukuoka Prefecture

House of Representatives Education, Sports,
Culture, Science and Technology Committee

Mr. Yoshiaki HARADA, Former Minister ofthe Environment○Enhancing the demonstration site “Hydrogen Society Showcase”
Utilizing the entire Ito Campus, we are enhancing a group of facilities to give visitors a sense of what a hydrogen energy society will
look like around 2030. Visitors can get hands-on experience of the “Zero Emissions of Oﬃcial University Vehicles” using the Kyushu
Hydrogen Station, and the “Safe Campus” concept, which uses fuel cells to secure emergency power.
Wind power generation
Hydrogen and fuel cell demonstration Solar battery panels
Hydrogen stationequipment (for renewable(for renewable (Hydrogen storage energy)site (Five types of Ene-Farm installed)hydrogen production)hydrogen production)
FCV parking spaces
FCV showroom and(for 3 vehicles)
exhibition room

Fuel cell-power footbath International Research Center(Hot water from Ene-Farm) for Hydrogen Energy (HY30)

Energy information display(electricity, gas and hydrogen usage)“Kyushu Ito Energy Information ” screen

World-ﬁrst introduction of FCV asoﬃcial university vehicles○Opening and activities of interactive learning space “Hydrogen Society Showroom”
We have opened “Hydrogen Society Showroom” as an interactive learning space providing information about advances in hydrogen energy
technologies and fuel cell mechanisms. Here we also hold lectures on hydrogen energy for junior-high and high school students.
We actively encourage visitors to come on campus and welcome members of the media too, as part of our initiatives to promote correctunderstanding about hydrogen energy, provide an image of the hydrogen energy-utilizing society of the future, and introduce the activitiesof the university.

Photos of visits and lectures

TV and print journalists on campus

14M a king a hydrogen- based society a reality through indust r y,a cadem ia, government and local community cooperat i on.

International Research Center for Hydrogen Energy, Kyushu University
744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan

URL:http://h2.kyushu-u.ac.jp/

E-mail:info@h2.kyushu-u.ac.jp

Next-Generation Fuel Cell Research Center, Kyushu University (Next-FC)
744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan

URL:http://fc.kyushu-u.ac.jp/

Email:info@fc.kyushu-u.ac.jp

2022.6.