Lloyd’s Register (LR) has formed a partnership with Pusan National University (PNU) in South Korea to promote innovation in liquefied hydrogen carrier technology. This collaboration is focused on advancing sustainable and zero-emission maritime transport. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on April 16 at LR’s Busan office, establishing a strategic alliance aimed at utilizing liquefied hydrogen as a clean and scalable energy source. The partnership will encompass a variety of initiatives, including joint research and technology development, technical expertise exchange, international academic cooperation, and shared policy frameworks.
This agreement marks a significant advancement in the commercialization of liquefied hydrogen carriers, ensuring they are designed, built, and operated according to international safety and performance standards. PNU is notable for hosting Korea’s first university-based institute dedicated to eco-friendly ships. The university is also leading the “Hydro Ocean K” project, which focuses on developing the world’s largest liquefied hydrogen carrier. This initiative plays a crucial role in shaping the future of zero-emission maritime transport.
Sung-Gu Park, President for North East Asia at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the importance of this partnership by stating it marks a pivotal step towards advancing liquefied hydrogen carriers and cryogenic engineering technology. He believes that this agreement will facilitate key developments in the future hydrogen economy through international exchanges based on advanced cryogenic technology. Dr. Jae-Myung Lee, Director of the Hydrogen Ship Technology Center, highlighted the unique nature of this collaboration. He expressed optimism that their joint efforts would lead to significant advancements in the utilization of liquid hydrogen, which is vital for the future hydrogen economy.
Together, they aim to explore the potential of ultra-low temperature research, an untapped domain for society.