Interview with Dimitrios Apostolou: Cycling to work on a hydrogen-powered bike?
On World Bike to Work Day, we would like to remember Dimitrios Apostolou, Energy Analyst at Market Management Department at Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO).
Dimitrios developed his doctoral thesis at Aragon Hydrogen Foundation (FHa) under the co-direction of Vanesa Gil, ARAID researcher at FHa and together with Professor George Xydis, with the aim of researching and developing his project on the advantages of using green hydrogen in light urban vehicles, such as bicycles. As a result, we have worked with someone with expertise in hydrogen bicycles.
As a matter of fact, Dimitrios defines himself as a “highly motivated and committed person, I have both theoretical and practical experience, through university studies and internships in companies. My research interests include hydrogen-based systems (fuel cells, hydrogen production by water electrolysis, hydrogen storage), wind energy, solar energy, RES technologies, energy storage and electricity markets”.
Interview with Dimitrios Apostolou: Cycling to work on a hydrogen-powered bike?
-Tell me, Dimitrios, why did you decide to come to Aragon Hydrogen Foundation?
-During my PhD studies it was pre-requisite to have a period abroad for research, related to my project. I was introduced to the FHa by my supervisor and based on the experience and the state-of-the-art hydrogen technology of the researchers and facilities of the FHa respectively, we came into an agreement to have a significant part of my research there.
-What was the aim of your project?
-The scope of my project was to assess the prospects and possible advantages of using green hydrogen in light-duty city vehicles such as bicycles compared to other means of transportation for commuting. Moreover, I investigated the prospects of a multi-dimensional use of hydrogen fuel in markets including the transportation and energy sectors. In FHa, I used RES-produced hydrogen to operate a hydrogen-powered bicycle under a range of refueling pressures to get energy efficiency and km range results.
-Did you achieve the objectives you wanted?
-My research in FHa was successful in terms of fulfilling the goal of the experiments and getting the results I wanted.
-Could people have easy access to a hydrogen-powered bicycle to go to work or move around the city?
-Definitely yes, as long as there is access to hydrogen fuel. This could happen through a hydrogen refueling station or even through an in-house small hydrogen generator (keeping specific safety rules) under a low pressure refueling option. The research showed that even the last scenario is plausible but with a higher ownership cost.
Dimitrios also added that he “would like to thank the researchers and technical personnel of the FHa for their great help and hospitality during my stay”.
Also, “I strongly believe that the experience I gained in FHa, significantly helped me to achieve my PhD research goals”.
