HELMet develops a new way to protect metal components used for high-pressure hydrogen transport and storage. The project uses Additive Manufacturing to create local “protective helmets” around the most critical areas of pipelines and vessels, where cracks are more likely to start.

These protective zones are designed to control how hydrogen moves inside steels, reducing hydrogen embrittlement and helping to prevent hydrogen-assisted cracking. HELMet combines advanced modelling, material design, Laser Powder Bed Fusion, and experimental testing in gaseous hydrogen to optimise and validate this approach.

By making components more resistant to hydrogen damage, HELMet aims to support safer and more cost-effective hydrogen infrastructure.