UK-based classification society Lloyd’s Register and South Korea’s Pusan National University (PNU) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish the first-ever global certification framework for liquid hydrogen shipping.

The framework aims to create the first internationally recognized joint performance evaluation and certification framework for liquid hydrogen carriers and onboard systems, helping to reduce uncertainty at the design and approval stages of projects.

Lloyd’s Register and PNU’s Hydrogen Ship Technology Center will jointly evaluate the cryogenic and insulation performance of storage tanks and associated piping systems, verify structural integrity under operational loads, and carry out detailed safety and risk assessments for onboard storage and transport systems.

Jae-Myung Lee, Director of the PNU Hydrogen Ship Technology Center, said: “This agreement effectively designates PNU’s Hydrogen Ship Technology Center as a liquid hydrogen performance evaluation and certification institution by Lloyd’s Register, the world’s leading classification and technical certification organization in the maritime sector. It marks the establishment of the world’s first certification body in the liquid hydrogen field.”

The collaboration combines Lloyd’s Register’s maritime classification and assurance expertise with PNU’s research capabilities in cryogenic engineering, to deliver a structured certification regime covering containment systems, materials and onboard infrastructure for liquid hydrogen storage and transport.

The framework is expected to support early-stage vessel and containment projects moving from concept design towards approval and construction.

Furthermore, the collaboration will define testing methodologies and certification procedures tailored specifically to marine environments, with the aim of informing future class rules and international regulatory development.

It builds on an existing program of joint research between the two parties into cryogenic engineering for liquid hydrogen carriers and technical knowledge exchange.

“As pressure mounts on shipping to decarbonise, the introduction of a clear and technically robust certification pathway for liquid hydrogen systems is expected to accelerate project development and reduce barriers to entry,” said Claudene Sharp‑Patel, Global Technical Director at Lloyd’s Register.

“By aligning testing, verification and certification under a recognised framework, our partnership with PNU aims to provide the level of assurance required for shipowners, yards and regulators to advance liquid hydrogen from concept to commercial reality.”

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