Monash University is taking a lead in the global quest for clean energy, thanks to a collaboration with Rohith Prakash, a PhD student from Chennai, India. Selected as a recipient of the prestigious Australian Government-funded Maitri Scholars Program, Prakash will work with Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering to research the safe transport and storage of liquid hydrogen.
Prakash’s research will focus on managing the sloshing effects in tanks, which can lead to the loss of liquid hydrogen due to boil-off. Liquid hydrogen, stored at an ultra-cold -253°C, has the potential to transform the energy sector due to its high energy density and lightweight nature. However, boil-off during transportation remains a challenge. By addressing this, Prakash’s work could offer solutions that make liquid hydrogen a viable clean energy carrier, especially for industries like aviation.
Liquid hydrogen is gaining attention as an alternative to fossil fuels, offering a cleaner, more sustainable solution. This research is particularly timely, as both Australia and India have ambitious goals to develop renewable energy sources. The Green Hydrogen Taskforce, a joint initiative between the two countries, and India’s National Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce five million metric tonnes of hydrogen by 2030, highlight the growing importance of this energy form.
Dr Tom Hughes, a Senior Lecturer at Monash University, is supervising the project. He played a key role in securing the Maitri Scholars grant and sees liquid hydrogen as a promising solution, particularly for aviation. “Hydrogen is an excellent option for industries where weight is a major factor,” Dr Hughes explained. “Its lightweight properties make it ideal for aviation, where you need to carry the energy source with you.”
Prakash, who previously studied at RMIT University, is excited to continue his academic journey in Australia. Reflecting on his selection for the Maitri Scholars Program, he said, “It’s an honour to represent the Indian diaspora in Australia, my second home. I feel this was destined for me, and I’m proud to contribute to the development of green energy solutions.”
The Maitri Scholars Program, overseen by the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR), is aimed at fostering stronger academic and research collaborations between the two countries. With funding of approximately $2.2 million, the program supports advanced research in critical areas such as clean energy, critical minerals, and advanced manufacturing. It also aims to strengthen the educational and economic ties between Australia and India.
Prakash’s work, under the mentorship of Dr Hughes, is expected to contribute to both countries’ renewable energy sectors, bringing new insights to the safe and efficient use of liquid hydrogen. As Australia and India continue to build on their shared goals of sustainability, this research stands as a vital part of that journey.
The Maitri Scholars Program is part of a broader initiative to attract top talent from India to pursue advanced degrees in STEM fields in Australia. It’s also designed to deepen the cultural, educational, and economic ties between the two nations, while addressing some of the most pressing global challenges.
Prakash’s project, with its focus on the practical and economic challenges of liquid hydrogen storage and transport, could play a key role in advancing global clean energy solutions. His work, and that of other Maitri Scholars, stands as a testament to the potential of international collaboration in shaping a sustainable future.
The Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR) promotes and coordinates enhanced cooperation and exchange between Australia and India. Its mission is supported by four strategic pillars: promoting policy dialogue, building business literacy, engaging the Indian diaspora, and deepening cultural partnerships. Through initiatives like the Maitri Scholars Program, CAIR aims to foster a stronger, more collaborative future for Australia and India.
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