Switzerland is home to many cutting-edge technological developments in academia and the private sector. Esteemed scientists from around the world gather to push the boundaries of science. One famous example is the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) near Geneva, which provides experts with a particle accelerator to conduct groundbreaking experiments.
In recent months, Destinus has taken on a pioneering challenge: constructing Europe's first commercial private hydrogen test site, Destinus H2 Park, in Payerne, Switzerland. This endeavor is driven by a commitment to promote hydrogen-related technologies across industries and to stimulate European participation. The Destinus H2 Park will ultimately represent a key milestone in developing the hydrogen-powered hypersonic aircraft.
A Uniquely Designed Hydrogen Testing Facility
The Destinus aircraft will use liquid hydrogen as the fuel for its afterburner. To ensure optimum engine performance, engineers need to conduct an extensive series of tests, which requires a dedicated infrastructure. While there are a handful of hydrogen test sites in Europe, private facilities are inaccessible for commercial purposes, while public sites often have long waiting lists. By building the Destinus H2 Park specifically to its needs, Destinus ensures precise alignment with testing procedures and retains complete control over the planning and execution of its development. In addition, Destinus guarantees both infrastructure and personnel safety throughout the testing process, while maintaining a commitment to uphold confidentiality regarding the activities carried out on the site. The facilities will allow Swiss public and academic institutions to access this unique infrastructure.
A Wide Range of Possibilities for Gas and Liquid Systems
The facilities will be equipped to run tests on high-performance propulsion systems, turbomachinery, and cryogenic equipment using gaseous hydrogen and oxygen, liquid hydrogen and nitrogen, and conventional kerosene. Three bench tests will be proposed for various uses.
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 (regulated pressure, temperature, and flow rate). These conditions offer many testing possibilities at the heart of the European green revolution.
An Operational Facility for Commercial Use in 2025
Potential users include, but are not limited to, research institutions, transportation companies (aerospace, automotive), pharmaceutical/biotech companies, government agencies, and many others. Located strategically at Payern airport, Destinus’ testing site opens up the possibility to host Swiss and international clients. The facility will be operational for gas system testing in Q3 2024 and liquid system testing in Q3 2025.
