A Ph.D. student from India is conducting groundbreaking research with Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering after being selected as the recipient of the prestigious Australian government-funded Maitri Scholars Program. Chennai native Rohith Prakash will focus on advancing the safe transport and storage of liquid hydrogen, with a particular emphasis on mitigating sloshing effects within storage tanks and their impact on boil-off rates. As a cryogenic fuel stored at an ultra-low temperature of -253°C, liquid hydrogen is highly susceptible to boil-off during transportation, presenting a significant challenge in its handling and management.

Recognized for its potential as a clean, sustainable energy carrier, liquid hydrogen is emerging as a key player in export markets, offering a promising alternative to fossil fuels. With its lightweight nature and high energy density, it is increasingly being considered for transformative applications, including the decarbonization of the aviation sector. Prakash’s research will be pivotal in optimizing these critical processes to unlock the full potential of liquid hydrogen as a future fuel.

Mr. Prakash will be supervised by Dr. Tom Hughes, Senior Lecturer in Civil Engineering at Monash University, who will also lead the project. Dr. Hughes played a vital role in securing the Maitri Scholars grant. The scholarship is supported by the Department of Civil Engineering, which provides additional funding for the research project.

“It is a privilege to engage in research at the esteemed Monash University. I am confident that this scholarship will significantly enhance my credentials, and I am proud to represent the Indian Diaspora in my beloved second home, Australia,” said Mr. Rohith Prakash. “As an aspiring Indian research student, I am eager to collaborate with the university and stakeholders, participate in events, attend workshops, and promote the Maitri Scholars and other programs offered by the Centre. These engagements will afford me the opportunity to network with distinguished individuals nationwide. I am enthusiastic about serving as a liaison between talented Indian scholars and Australian universities.”

The research is expected to contribute to both Australian and Indian efforts in the renewable energy sector, aligning with the goals of the Green Hydrogen Taskforce established by both countries. It will also support India’s National Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce five million metric tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2030.

Mr. Prakash, who previously studied at RMIT University in Melbourne, said his selection for the Maitri Scholars Program highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing global challenges. “I’m honored to be given this opportunity and work closely with Dr. Hughes. This work will play an important role in promoting green energy solutions as an alternative to using fossil fuels,” said Mr. Prakash.

The Maitri Scholars Program is a critical component of the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR), which aims to foster academic excellence and research collaboration between Australia and India. This year, the Australian Government announced funding of approximately $2.2 million for scholarships covering advanced manufacturing, critical technology, critical minerals, and clean energy solutions, reflecting its commitment to boosting economic ties with India through educational exchange and innovation.

Image: Rohith Prakash. Credit: Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering 

Source: APN News