Embedded Files
Blue Hydrogen-Diesel
Advancing Hydrogen Dual-Fuel Technology for Low-Carbon Freight Transport
Advancing Hydrogen Dual-Fuel Technology for Low-Carbon Freight Transport
This project explores hydrogen dual-fuel technology as a cost-effective way to reduce carbon emissions in freight transportation by enabling the co-injection of hydrogen and diesel into existing internal combustion engines. Working with a major engine manufacturer, researchers are testing a hydrogen delivery system and control software on a Class 8 diesel engine in a laboratory setting before advancing to field trials. The initiative aims to optimize engine performance while lowering carbon intensity, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. Additionally, the project will develop techno-economic assessments, business models, and commercialization strategies.
Hydrogen Technology
Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a promising alternative to diesel in commercial and heavy freight transportation due to its significant environmental benefits. Unlike diesel and gasoline, which release harmful carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, hydrogen produces only water vapour when burned, making it a clean fuel option that can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the transportation sector. In this project, a hydrogen delivery system and control software solution are being tested in collaboration with a major engine original equipment manufacturer. The goal is to demonstrate the co-injection of clean hydrogen and diesel into a Class 8 diesel internal combustion engine, which will be tested on a full-sized engine in a laboratory environment before field trials are conducted on Alberta roads. The technology can be deployed on any compatible diesel internal combustion engine, offering the ability to retrofit existing vehicles with minimal cost.
522kW Hydrogen Engine Testing Facility
522kW Hydrogen Engine Testing Facility
Cummins 4.5l H2DF Control Development Testbench
Cummins 4.5l H2DF Control Development Testbench
Benefits to Alberta
This project brings significant benefits to Alberta by advancing technology that supports the heavy freight transportation sector in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. By enabling the reduction of vehicle carbon intensity, the initiative contributes to cleaner transportation solutions. It also fosters economic growth through the establishment of a university spinoff company dedicated to commercializing dual-fuel technology. The project will create new jobs in technology development, demonstration, and commercialization, strengthening Alberta’s high-tech, clean energy sector. Additionally, it opens global export opportunities for the dual-fuel retrofit kit, positioning Alberta as a leader in sustainable transportation innovation.
Project Impact
Since June 2022, this project has led to six publications, the development of a new product or service, and the training of eight students. It has also resulted in the establishment of a university spinoff company to commercialize dual-fuel technology. With one new patent anticipated, the project is a key enabler of greenhouse gas reduction in Alberta’s heavy freight transportation sector. Beyond its environmental impact, it is driving economic growth by creating six project-specific jobs and an estimated 1,250 future jobs. By reducing vehicle carbon intensity, fostering a high-tech clean energy economy, and opening global export opportunities for the dual-fuel retrofit kit, this initiative positions Alberta as a leader in sustainable transportation innovation.
These figures illustrate different clusters of emissions: one for NOx and another for PM, across four different operating point ranges, accompanied by the pressure trace of diesel and HDDF engine data.
Territorial Acknowledgement
Territorial Acknowledgement
The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs, and research stations are primarily located on the traditional territory of Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, and Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe nations; lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7, and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems, and cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.
Page updated
Report abuse