A PhD student from India is conducting groundbreaking research with Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering after being selected as the recipient of the esteemed Australian government-funded Maitri Scholars Program.
Chennai native Rohith Prakash is set to focus on advancing the safe transport and storage of liquid hydrogen, with a particular emphasis on mitigating the sloshing effects within storage tanks and their influence 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 play a pivotal role 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 pivotal role in winning the Maitri Scholars grant. The scholarship is supported by the Department of Civil Engineering, which provides additional funding to support the research project of the student.
“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 contribute to 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 shows 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 step 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 build academic excellence and research collaboration between Australia and India. This year the Australian Government announced funding of approximately $2.2 million for scholarships that cover advanced manufacturing, critical technology, critical minerals, and clean energy solutions. This reflects the Australian Government’s commitment to boosting economic ties with India through educational exchange and innovation.
