China has set a new global record in hydrogen aviation with a successful 30-hour continuous flight of a hydrogen-powered drone. The test, which took place in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, marks a significant milestone in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
The drone, developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) in collaboration with Tsinghua University, weighs 50 kilograms and is powered by fuel cells with an energy density of 600W/kg. Researchers from Tsinghua University achieved a system efficiency of 55% by using lightweight stack design and low platinum-loaded catalyst technology. This breakthrough has helped overcome challenges related to low pressure and extreme cold conditions at high altitudes.
The successful flight could open the door to a range of new applications for hydrogen-powered drones. According to Global Times, these drones could be used in disaster rescue missions, emergency communications, environmental monitoring, and border patrol operations.
This achievement highlights China’s growing leadership in the field of hydrogen aviation and unmanned aerial systems.
