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MIT startup LNK Energies is developing a technology to convert heavy-duty diesel trucks to hydrogen power. According to CTO Alexis Huynh, this system offers a total cost of ownership for Class 8 trucks that is 13% lower than traditional diesel, providing a potential buffer against fuel price volatility.
The company utilizes liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) to store hydrogen in liquid form, which can be dispensed using existing diesel infrastructure. By integrating a compact reactor, roughly the size of a mini fridge, directly onto the vehicle, LNK eliminates the need for high-pressure storage tanks that typically require compression at over 11,000 psi.
Once released on-board, the hydrogen can power modified internal combustion engines using waste heat or be utilized in fuel cells to eliminate combustion emissions. CEO Sayandeep Biswas notes that this approach bypasses the need for specialized hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
While the startup currently has a lab-scale reactor powering a lawnmower engine, they aim to install a larger version in a commercial truck within 18 months. LNK projects the technology will be cheaper than diesel at $6.50 per gallon after producing 50 to 100 units, without relying on government subsidies. The team will present at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco, held October 13-15.
