Exploring the Untapped Potential of CMCs in Offshore and Hydrogen Infrastructure
Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) are well known in aerospace and high-performance automotive applications. But could these same materials offer real value in the offshore and hydrogen sectors as well? A recent study by Prof. André Baeten suggests that this possibility may be closer than expected, especially as industries seek more robust, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight alternatives to metals and polymers.
What Makes CMCs Interesting for Harsh Environments?
Baeten’s analysis outlines a clear set of advantages that position CMCs as promising materials for harsh offshore conditions:
Thermal stability: Ideal for exhaust systems, turbine components, or fire protection housings.
Corrosion and wear resistance: Especially relevant in saltwater-exposed pumps, valves, and housings.
High strength-to-weight ratio: Useful for components in marine vessels or offshore wind turbines.
Long-term fatigue resistance: Suitable for moving parts under cyclic load, such as in rotating systems or subsea equipment.
Electrical and thermal insulation properties: Making them suitable for hydrogen systems or battery protection.
These benefits may open up new application fields — if manufacturing costs, certification, and scalability can be addressed.
Potential Use Cases in Offshore Systems
According to Baeten’s study, the following applications could especially benefit from CMCs:
Exhaust and turbine components: where heat resistance is key
Pump housings and valves: where saltwater and sand are constant threats
Protective casings for battery storage and hydrogen tanks
Structural components in wind turbine nacelles or floating platforms
Fire protection: walls, bulkheads, and enclosures in offshore energy systems
Subsea tools and sensor housings, where pressure and corrosion are major risks
While many of these applications are still in early development stages, Baeten’s study shows growing interest in adapting CMCs for such roles.
Hydrogen Applications: A New Frontier?
Hydrogen systems — especially those powered by offshore wind — may be a future stronghold for CMCs. Potential uses include:
Exhaust and heat shielding around fuel cells
Lightweight components for hydrogen-powered ferries
Insulated and fire-resistant enclosures for hydrogen tanks and batteries
Corrosion-resistant structures inside electrolyzers for seawater splitting
Baeten references early research into electrolysis systems using saltwater, where CMCs could help mitigate the long-term impact of corrosion and heat — assuming material compatibility and cost challenges can be managed.
Challenges to Consider
Despite their potential, CMCs are still limited by:
High production costs compared to traditional materials
Specialized processing methods, like CVI or LSI
Limited certification pathways for use in safety-critical maritime systems
Lack of long-term operational data in offshore contexts
Baeten emphasizes that broader adoption will require not only more testing, but also design optimization, material standardization, and closer collaboration between manufacturers and regulators.
A Material Worth Watching
CMCs are not yet mainstream in offshore or hydrogen infrastructure. But their unique mix of thermal, chemical, and mechanical performance may position them as strong candidates for next-generation components, especially as industries seek lighter, longer-lasting, and more environmentally robust solutions.
As Baeten notes, the key will be continued R&D, cost-efficient processing, and targeted pilot applications that validate their real-world potential.
