Destinus, a leading hydrogen technology company, has set a milestone in European technological innovation by taking on the challenge of building Europe's first private commercial hydrogen test site.

Named Destinus H2 Park and strategically located in Payerne, Switzerland, the park is designed to drive research and development of hydrogen-related technologies in various industrial sectors.

Introducing the first European private hydrogen testing site

Switzerland, known for its cutting-edge technological advancements in both academia and the private sector, has emerged as a global hub for scientific excellence. Esteemed scientists from around the world converge in Switzerland to push the boundaries of science, with institutions like CERN near Geneva serving as iconic examples.

In this vein of innovation, Destinus has taken on the pioneering challenge of creating Destinus H2 Park. This project stems from Destinus' commitment to promote hydrogen-related technologies across industries and foster European participation in this field. Additionally, this park will play a pivotal role in the development of hydrogen-powered hypersonic aircraft.

Unique hydrogen testing facilities

One of the standout features of Destinus H2 Park is its exclusive design for liquid hydrogen testing, which will be used as fuel for Destinus aircraft afterburners. To ensure optimal engine performance, a series of comprehensive tests are crucial, requiring specialized infrastructure. While there are some hydrogen testing sites in Europe, many are inaccessible for commercial use, and public sites often have long waiting lists.

Destinus H2 Park has been specifically designed to meet these needs, allowing for precise alignment with testing procedures and offering complete control over planning and execution. The company also commits to ensuring safety of both infrastructure and personnel throughout the testing process, maintaining confidentiality about activities conducted on-site. Moreover, these facilities will be available for Swiss academic and public institutions interested in accessing this unique infrastructure.

Source: Destinus

Wide range of gas and liquid system testing possibilities

Destinus H2 Park's facilities will be equipped to conduct tests on high-performance propulsion systems, turbomachinery, and cryogenic equipment using gaseous hydrogen and oxygen, as well as liquid hydrogen and nitrogen, and conventional kerosene. Three bench test types will be offered for various applications.

The Payerne test site will be capable of testing 50 kN motors at a flow rate of 0.5 kg/s of liquid hydrogen and nitrogen in a controlled environment, offering numerous testing possibilities at the heart of Europe's green revolution.

Operational facility for commercial use in 2025

Destinus H2 Park will not only benefit from Destinus' involvement but will also be open to a wide range of potential users, including research institutions, transportation companies (aerospace and automotive), pharmaceutical/biotech companies, government agencies, and many more. Strategically located at Payerne airport, this testing site opens up the possibility to host Swiss and international clients.

The facilities are expected to be operational for gas system testing in Q3 2024 and for liquid system testing.