Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and Services
Fuel Cell Integration Center (FCIC)
The Fuel Cell Integration Center (FCIC) is a research laboratory currently under construction for the development, testing, and validation of fuel cell-based propulsion systems for maritime applications. As a first milestone, Fraunhofer CML has successfully commissioned a 40-kW fuel cell in the laboratory.
At a Glance:
| feature | details |
|---|---|
Name |
Fuel Cell Integration Center (FCIC) |
Operator |
Fraunhofer CML |
Parent project |
H2AM – Hanseatic Hydrogen Center for Aviation and Maritime |
Previous name |
Innovation and Technology Center for Hydrogen (ITZ) |
Focus |
Fuel cell systems for shipping |
Tested System |
Nuvera E60, 60 kW rated power |
Power (target) |
approx. 160 kW (280 A) |
Partner |
Center for Applied Aviation Research (ZAL) |
Status |
Under construction |
What is the FCIC?
The FCIC is a modular laboratory being built at Fraunhofer CML as part of the H2AM project. The goal is to create an infrastructure platform for the systematic investigation of fuel cell-based propulsion systems for shipping—ranging from the system integration of individual components to comprehensive testing of complete propulsion systems.
Why is this important? Challenges in the shipping industry
The maritime shipping industry must drastically reduce its greenhouse gas emissions: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This requires alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, or methanol, as well as new, energy-efficient propulsion technologies.
Fuel cells offer a promising solution for this:
- Emissions-free operation
- Low noise levels
- High efficiency
What has already been achieved?
Successful commissioning of a 60-kW fuel cell
The “New Energies Solutions” team at Fraunhofer CML has successfully commissioned a Nuvera E60 fuel cell and completed initial tests. The focus was on:
- System integration of the Nuvera E60 module
- Setup of the control and visualization systems
- Construction of a complete test bench in collaboration with ZAL
Technical configuration of the test bench:
- Hydrogen and electrical connections for the compressor and control unit
- Complete cooling circuit
- Balance-of-Plant (BoP) components for stable operation
Test results:
In the final test run, the fuel cell achieved currents of up to 280 A, corresponding to an electrical output of approximately 43 kW. The maximum rated power of 60 kW has not yet been reached due to the electrical load limitation currently available in the laboratory. After the test, the system was properly decommissioned (gas venting, draining the cooling circuit, dust-proof packaging).
What role does Fraunhofer CML play?
Fraunhofer CML plays a central role in the H2AM project in setting up the FCIC. The resulting infrastructure forms the basis for future development projects in the field of zero-emission energy technologies for shipping.
How can you use the FCIC?
The FCIC is aimed at industry and research partners who:
- Would like to test fuel cell systems or components for maritime applications
- Are working on the development of hybrid propulsion systems with integrated fuel cells
- Require system testing and analysis as part of development projects
Contact for collaboration inquiries: M.Sc. Patrick Zimmerman, patrick.zimmerman@cml.fraunhofer.de
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which fuel cell has been tested so far? A Nuvera E60 with a rated power of 60 kW. During testing, an electrical output of approximately 43 kW was achieved.
As part of which project is the FCIC being developed? As part of H2AM – Hanseatic Hydrogen Center for Aviation and Maritime, formerly known as the Innovation and Technology Center for Hydrogen (ITZ).
Why are fuel cells relevant for shipping? They enable emission-free, efficient, and quiet propulsion and support the CO2 neutrality required by the IMO by 2050.
Who is the Fraunhofer CML collaborating with on this project? Among others, the Center for Applied Aviation Research (ZAL) as well as other industry and research partners.
Last updated: September 2026