Fuel cell systems for the aviation industry

Please note that this presentation is subject to a fee!
Tuesday 04/21/2026
5:10 pm - 5:30 pm
Conference Center East, Room Berlin
English

Low-temperature PEM fuel cell systems are considered a key technology for achieving net-zero goals in aviation. One of the biggest challenges currently lies in the comparatively low power density per propulsion unit—at present, such systems typically achieve less than 1 kW/kg. In particular, the fuel cell stacks and humidifiers contribute significantly to this low gravimetric power index at the system level.

The presentation will introduce and analyze specific design scenarios. It offers a systemic view of key levers for reducing the weight of PEM fuel cell systems for use in future zero-emission aircraft.

Speaker

Dr. Christoph Gentner
Gruppenleiter
Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR)

Hydrogen & Battery Summit, Sustainable Aviation

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