Hydrogen storage and fuel cell technologies are at the heart of the clean energy revolution, offering a promising alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based energy systems. As the world seeks sustainable solutions for energy generation and storage, hydrogen has emerged as a key player due to its clean combustion and high energy density. However, the efficient storage and conversion of hydrogen into usable energy present significant technical challenges that require innovative material solutions.

At the Global Conference on Materials Science and Advanced Manufacturing (MSAM – 2026), this session explores the cutting-edge developments in hydrogen storage materials and fuel cell technologies that are essential for the success of clean energy systems. From advanced storage techniques to novel fuel cell materials, the focus will be on breakthroughs that improve efficiency, safety, and scalability of hydrogen-based energy solutions.

We invite submissions and expert talks on:

• Hydrogen Storage Materials: Discussing the latest innovations in materials designed for safe and efficient hydrogen storage. This includes metal hydrides, chemical hydrogen storage, and carbon-based materials for high-density hydrogen storage at ambient conditions, and their potential to meet the storage needs for industrial-scale hydrogen production and transportation.

• Solid-State Hydrogen Storage: Exploring the development of solid-state materials, such as hydride-based systems and carbon nanotubes, which offer high storage capacities and lower costs compared to traditional gas or liquid hydrogen storage. These materials are critical for the efficient long-term storage of hydrogen in clean energy applications.

• High-Efficiency Fuel Cell Materials: Examining advanced electrocatalysts and ion-conducting materials for fuel cells, which are essential to improving the efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness of hydrogen-powered fuel cell systems. Research on Platinum-group metal catalysts, non-precious metal catalysts, and anion-exchange membranes will be highlighted.

• Fuel Cell Electrolytes: Investigating the role of novel electrolyte materials for proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). These materials are critical to achieving high ionic conductivity, chemical stability, and long-term performance in fuel cell systems.

• Composite Materials for Hydrogen Storage: The role of composite materials, including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and carbon fiber composites, in hydrogen storage systems. These materials are being explored for their ability to achieve ultra-high storage capacities at lower pressures and temperatures, making them ideal for transport and large-scale energy systems.

• Advanced Membranes for Hydrogen Separation and Purification: New materials that enable the efficient separation and purification of hydrogen from mixed gases. This session will highlight advances in membrane technology, including polymeric and ceramic membranes, which are essential for enhancing the purity of hydrogen for fuel cell applications.

• Hydrogen Economy and Infrastructure Materials: Exploring the role of materials in developing a hydrogen infrastructure, including pipeline materials for safe hydrogen transportation, storage vessels, and dispensing systems. Advances in these materials are essential for building a reliable and scalable hydrogen economy.

• Carbon Nanomaterials for Hydrogen Storage: The potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and carbon aerogels as highly efficient hydrogen storage materials. Their high surface area, tunable porosity, and stability under extreme conditions make them ideal candidates for next-generation hydrogen storage solutions.

• Metal Hydrides for High-Density Hydrogen Storage: In-depth discussions on metal hydrides, which have emerged as one of the most promising materials for solid-state hydrogen storage due to their ability to absorb and release hydrogen at moderate temperatures. Researchers are focusing on optimizing these materials for higher energy densities and lower costs.

• Hydrogen Storage at Low Temperatures: Research on materials designed for cryogenic hydrogen storage, including liquefied hydrogen and cryogenic tanks, which store hydrogen at extremely low temperatures. The focus will be on improving the efficiency of these storage systems and their integration into clean energy infrastructures.

• Sustainable Fuel Cell Materials: Investigating the environmental impact of fuel cell materials, including strategies to reduce the reliance on rare or toxic materials. This includes bio-based catalysts, recyclable membranes, and alternative fuel cell components that help minimize the ecological footprint of fuel cell systems.

• Nanomaterials for Hydrogen Storage and Fuel Cells: Exploring the role of nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, nanowires, and nanostructured coatings, in improving the performance of hydrogen storage and fuel cell systems. These materials enable faster reaction kinetics, increased surface area, and enhanced overall system efficiency.

• Fuel Cell Durability and Lifetime: Understanding the materials and design strategies that can extend the lifetime of hydrogen fuel cells, which face challenges related to corrosion, material degradation, and catalyst degradation over time. This includes the development of high-durability electrolytes, protective coatings, and advanced catalysts.

• Hydrogen Storage and Fuel Cells for Transportation: Discussing the specific challenges and opportunities related to hydrogen-powered vehicles, including light-duty vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, and hydrogen-powered buses. Research on lightweight storage systems, fast refueling, and energy-efficient fuel cells will be covered.

• Hydrogen Production and Materials: Exploring how hydrogen production technologies, such as electrolysis and biological hydrogen production, intersect with materials science. Materials that enable more efficient hydrogen production processes are critical for reducing costs and scaling up production for global energy needs.

• Integration of Hydrogen Storage with Renewable Energy Systems: Investigating the role of hydrogen storage in energy systems powered by renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. This session will explore how hydrogen can serve as an energy carrier, enabling grid storage, seasonal storage, and load balancing in renewable-based energy grids.

• Safety and Regulatory Considerations in Hydrogen Systems: Discussing the safety and regulatory challenges associated with the storage, transportation, and use of hydrogen. Research into new materials for safety systems and standards for hydrogen infrastructure will be highlighted to ensure the safe integration of hydrogen into energy systems.

• Future Trends in Hydrogen Storage and Fuel Cell Materials: Looking forward to emerging materials and innovations in the hydrogen energy sector. This includes next-generation nanostructured materials, low-cost hydrogen storage options, and fuel cell technologies that will define the future of clean energy systems.

This session will bring together leading researchers, materials scientists, and industry experts to share their latest advancements in hydrogen storage and fuel cell technologies for clean energy systems. Together, we will explore how these materials are shaping the future of sustainable energy, driving innovations in transportation, power generation, and beyond.

Join us at MSAM – 2026 in Rome to be a part of the conversation on the transformative potential of hydrogen storage and fuel cells in the transition to a low-carbon economy.