Hydrogen Storage Training — Metal Hydrides
Basic-level training specially designed for students, researchers, and professionals interested in pursuing research in hydrogen storage using metal hydrides.
Why now
Hydrogen is rewriting the global energy landscape — and India is at the centre of it.
Fuel cells and electrolysers are witnessing unprecedented growth worldwide. India is emerging as a major hub for hydrogen-based research, innovation and industrial deployment — which means the people who can actually build and test these systems are the ones in demand.
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Years in hydrogen and fuel cells
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Years university teaching
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Structured training levels
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Research publications
Green hydrogenPEM fuel cellsElectrolysersMEA fabricationCatalyst coatingBipolar platesGas diffusion layersPolarization curvesDMFCStack assemblyGreen hydrogenPEM fuel cellsElectrolysersMEA fabricationCatalyst coatingBipolar platesGas diffusion layersPolarization curvesDMFCStack assembly
The principle
A PEM fuel cell, start to finish.
Hydrogen in one side, air in the other, electricity out of the middle and water as the only exhaust. This is the reaction every programme on this site is built around — and the cell you will assemble and test yourself.
H₂ / O₂Electron (e⁻)Proton (H⁺)Water (H₂O)
01Hydrogen (H₂) is fed to the anode.
Dr. Aristatil Ganesan
Senior Scientist & Coach
About Dr. Aristatil Ganesan
Fourteen years inside the hydrogen industry — teaching what actually works.
Dr. Aristatil Ganesan is a Senior Scientist at Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, and serves as the organisation's Hydrogen Energy Training, Technical Coaching & Design Specialist, supporting academic, research and industrial training programmes conducted in collaboration with universities, research institutions and industries.
He has over 14 years of industrial experience in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, complemented by six years of university-level teaching in India and abroad. Across that career he has worked in research, technology development and industrial consultancy, and has authored more than 20 research publications in reputed national and international journals. He is the inventor or co-inventor of several published patents.
In recognition of his research expertise he was invited to the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, as a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher in 2023. His work there — supported by the U.S. Naval Research programme — developed a bifunctional electrochemical device combining water electrolysis and fuel cell operation in a single unit, alongside advanced catalysts for clean energy applications.
He is passionate about closing the gap between scientific research and industrial application: the training exists to give students, researchers, academics and industry professionals practical, research-oriented and industry-relevant knowledge of hydrogen energy, fuel cells, electrolysers and sustainable energy technologies.
Ph.D. in Physics
Specialising in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells — Bharathiar University, Coimbatore.
M.Sc. in Materials Science
PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore.
M.Tech. in Non-Destructive Testing
National Institute of Technology (NIT), Tiruchirappalli.
Senior Postdoctoral Researcher
University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA — invited in 2023, under the U.S. Naval Research programme.
Train your research scholars in this field and establish a strong foundation for successful PhD guidance.
About the Institute
Hydrogen Energy Institute
The training arm of Aatral Innovations, built to bridge the gap between hydrogen theory and real-world technology through hands-on experience with working fuel cells, electrolysers, stacks, test systems, and hydrogen applications. We train and collaborate with industry professionals, university and college faculty, PhD scholars, scientists, researchers, and emerging hydrogen startups.
Hydrogen Energy Institute is the training arm of Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd., established to put working hydrogen hardware in front of the people who need to use it — research scholars, faculty members, scientists, engineers and students.
The teaching happens on the same benches the company's own development work runs on. Participants prepare catalyst slurry, coat electrodes, hot-press membrane electrode assemblies, bolt up a single cell and test what they have built, rather than watching a demonstration of any of it.
Training runs at four structured levels, and everything outside those levels — material testing, programmes at your own campus, seminars and faculty development, laboratory installation — is arranged case by case.
Training levels
Four, from single cell to stack
Home venue
Muttukadu, ECR, Chennai
Delivered at
Institutions across India and abroad
Scheduling
Your dates, holidays included
About the company
Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd.
The company behind the Hydrogen Energy Institute, with more than 20 years of experience in hydrogen energy, fuel cell, and catalysis research and technology development. Aatral collaborates with a Government of India agency and is engaged in product development and manufacturing.
We provide fuel cells, electrolysers, stacks, custom-designed test stations, and academic research products, along with complete fuel cell and electrolyser laboratory installation and integration services for institutions, researchers, and industry.
The company was founded in 2009 by Dr. N. Mani as Ingsman Energy and Fuel Cell Research Organization Pvt. Ltd. As the work expanded from research into commercialisation, Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd. was founded in 2017.
Its research runs on advanced catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cells, hydrogen production through chemical reforming, and catalyst development for clean energy applications — work that has been translated into practical technologies for the Indian Defence sector.
The National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Government of India, is an equity partner in the company, supporting indigenous technology development under Make in India.
Mr. Kathiravan R. Subramanian
Chief Executive OfficerPostgraduate in Physics, with multidisciplinary experience in enterprise resource planning, advanced manufacturing and technology development across Europe, the United States and India.
Dr. N. Mani
Chief Scientific Officer & DirectorDoctorate from IIT Madras in hydrogen storage materials, with hundreds of international publications, several patents and a long record of guiding Ph.D. scholars in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
Dr. Aristatil Ganesan
Senior Scientist & CoachEleven years in the fuel cell industry and six years of university teaching in India and abroad, including a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher post at the University of Pittsburgh, USA.
Training & Capacity Building
Four levels. Every one of them hands-on.
Our training programmes are designed for engineers and technicians working in industry, and for professors, faculty members, research scholars and students from colleges, universities and leading technical institutions, including the IITs and NITs.
We have extensive experience running short-term and specialised training in hydrogen energy and fuel cells:
Short-Term Training (STT)
The four structured levels below, run at our Chennai benches or at your institution.
Training of Trainers (ToT)
For faculty who will go on to teach and supervise this work themselves.
On-the-Job Training (OJT)
Extended, embedded training for engineers and technical staff already in post.
Alongside the structured programmes we have run numerous industrial workshops and hands-on technical workshops, both at our own company and at colleges, universities and technical institutions.
The programmes cover more than theory. They are built around practical understanding, hands-on experience, industrial application and the real-world problems that come up in hydrogen energy and fuel cell technologies.
Our objective is to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industrial requirements, so that participants can apply what they have learned with confidence in research, in teaching and in professional practice.
In development
Coming Soon — Advanced Training & Research Services
The following training programs and research services are currently under development and will be announced shortly.
Customized Hydrogen Energy Training & Research Facilities
Customized training programs and access to research facilities based on your specific area of interest in Hydrogen Energy.
Electrochemical Studies
Training and facilities for potentiostatic studies, Rotating Disk Electrode (RDE) studies, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), and other related electrochemical investigations.
Durability & Accelerated Durability Studies
Accelerated Durability Testing (ADT) and related durability studies for fuel cells and electrolysers.
Electrode Catalyst Coating & Electroplating
Electroplating and catalyst deposition on electrodes for fuel cell, electrolyser, and other electrochemical applications, including customized catalyst coating based on specific research requirements.
Fees — Charges are shared on enquiry. Write to us or message on WhatsApp for the level you are interested in.
Download brochureAt a glance
The levels side by side
| Level | Training programme | Key topics / scope | Theory | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Level I | Hydrogen Experience | A short experiential session designed as an introduction to our training programmes, or as a standalone experience before enrolling in any training level. Ideal for those who want to experience the operation and functionality of real fuel cells and electrolysers through live demonstrations and hands-on experimentation within a short duration. | Live experimental demonstration | 3 hours |
| Level I | PEM Fuel Cell Training | Catalyst slurry and coating, electrode and MEA fabrication, gasketing, single-cell assembly and performance evaluation — a proton exchange membrane fuel cell built end to end. | 2 hours | 3 days |
| Level II | PEM Electrolyser TrainingFuel-cell component not included | Single-cell assembly, Pt/C electrode and MEA fabrication, data plotting, gas-flow measurement, efficiency, commercial MEA and the HER/OER theory behind all of it. | 2 hours | 3 days |
| Level III | PEM Fuel Cell + ElectrolyserSingle cells | Complete Level I and Level II training in one visit, focused on single-cell systems — both halves of the hydrogen cycle on the same bench. | 4 hours | 5 days |
| Level IV | Advanced Level TrainingFor industrial professionals and research scholars | Levels I and II in full, then past the single cell: stack assembly and operation, advanced calculations, a hydrogen storage demonstration and further hands-on work. | 5 hours | 6 days |
Special counselling is available for project proposals, research, publications and career guidance, and on fuel cells, hydrogen generation, chemical synthesis, hydrogen storage and laboratory installation within your own organisation. Concessional testing charges may be available for participants' samples.
Who it's for
Two very different reasons to be in the room.
For Students & Engineers
Hydrogen and fuel cell industries are creating large-scale employment opportunities across design, manufacturing, testing, safety and system integration.
By building a strong foundation in hydrogen technologies and receiving hands-on training from experienced industry professionals, you can position yourself for placement in leading companies — or launch your own startup rooted in indigenous innovation.
- Industry-relevant skills, not just theory
- A portfolio of real assembled and tested cells
- A route into placement or your own venture
For Faculty & Scientists
This training is designed to build complete confidence in independently developing, assembling and testing fuel cells and electrolysers.
Participants gain the capability to conduct experiments without external dependency, enabling high-quality research, publications and potentially patentable innovations. Train your research scholars in this field and establish a strong foundation for successful PhD guidance.
- Run experiments without external dependency
- Higher-quality publications and patentable work
- A firm foundation for guiding PhD scholars
Why train here
This is not a lecture course.
You spend the bulk of the time at the bench with your hands on the hardware — assembling, coating, pressing and testing — with someone experienced beside you.
Complete hands-on exposure
In-depth practical sessions where you do the work yourself, not watch someone else do it.
Taught by industry professionals
Delivered by fully industry-experienced professionals, so the skills you gain are the ones actually required on the job.
Individual guidance
Personalised technical support and one-to-one attention throughout the programme.
Theory that connects to practice
Clear, simplified explanation of the theory with a strong practical correlation at every step.
No time pressure
Carry out experiments at your own pace. Nothing is rushed to fit a timetable.
Guaranteed confidence
Leave able to handle hydrogen, fuel cell and electrolyser systems on your own.
New research pathways
Enables fresh research ideas, product development and genuinely innovative directions.
Your schedule, including holidays
Choose the days that suit you — training can be arranged on holidays too.
From the sessions
Real benches, real cells, real cohorts.
Training conducted across educational and scientific institutions — from single-cell assembly at the bench to full seminars and faculty development programmes.
With thanks
The people this work stands on.
Every training programme here rests on years of mentorship, backing and quiet effort from others. These notes are Dr. Ganesan's own.
Mr. Kathiravan R. Subramanian
CEO, Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd.
Associated since 2009
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Kathiravan Subramanian, CEO of Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd., with whom I have had the privilege of being associated since 2009.
Mr. Kathiravan holds a postgraduate degree in Physics and possesses extensive multidisciplinary experience in enterprise resource planning, advanced manufacturing, and technology development. Throughout his professional career, he has worked with leading organizations across Europe, the United States, India, and several other countries. Driven by a passion for continuous learning and a vision to transform his technical expertise into commercially viable innovations, he assumed the leadership of Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd. and has successfully guided the company toward sustained growth and technological excellence.
Among his many achievements, one of the most noteworthy is his instrumental role in strengthening collaborations with prestigious government organizations. Under his leadership, the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Government of India, became an equity partner in the company, enabling significant contributions to projects supporting Indian Defense sector and promoting the vision of “Make in India” through indigenous technology development.
Mr. Kathiravan has also extended his wholehearted support and encouragement in establishing and promoting our training programs for students, researchers, engineers, and industrial professionals across India. His constant guidance, cooperation, and belief in the importance of knowledge sharing have played a significant role in the success of these initiatives.
I express my heartfelt appreciation and sincere thanks to Mr. Kathiravan Subramanian for his invaluable support, inspiring leadership, and dedicated service. I wish him continued success in all his future endeavors.
Dr. N. Mani
CSO / Director, Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd.
Research mentor since 2011
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. N. Mani, Chief Scientific Officer and Director of Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd., who has been my research mentor and guide since 2011.
Dr. Mani holds a postgraduate degree in Physics and earned his Doctorate from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), one of India's premier institutions, specializing in hydrogen storage materials. Throughout his distinguished research career, he has actively contributed to numerous government-funded research projects and has guided many Ph.D. scholars in the field of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. His outstanding academic achievements include hundreds of research publications in reputed international journals and several notable patents.
With a vision to translate scientific research into practical technologies for society, Dr. Mani founded the company in 2009 under the name Ingsman Energy and Fuel Cell Research Organization Pvt. Ltd. As the organization expanded its scope from research to commercialization, Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd. was founded in 2017 by him, reflecting its commitment to developing and delivering innovative energy technologies to industry.
His primary research interests include the development of advanced catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells, hydrogen production through chemical reforming, and catalyst development for clean energy applications. One of his significant achievements has been the successful translation of research outcomes into practical technologies for Indian Defense, which also played a vital role in establishing a strategic partnership between Aatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd. and the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Government of India.
Beyond his remarkable scientific contributions, Dr. Mani has been an exceptional mentor and an unwavering source of encouragement. He has extended his wholehearted support in establishing the training division at Aatral Innovations and continues to guide and inspire its growth. His vision, mentorship, and commitment to knowledge dissemination have greatly influenced my professional journey and the success of our training initiatives.
I express my heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to Dr. N. Mani for his invaluable guidance, constant encouragement, and remarkable support. I wish him continued success in all his future scientific and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Mr. G. Prithivirajan
Managing Director, Bulwark Investment Consultants (P) Ltd., Nalanda Softskills
25+ years across marketing, finance and design
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. G. Prithivirajan, Managing Director of Nalanda Softskills, whose unwavering support and dedication have played a vital role in the success of my training initiatives.
Mr. Prithivirajan holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree and brings over 25 years of diverse professional experience spanning marketing, finance, real estate, interior design, and construction. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
He has been instrumental in transforming my technical training programs into professional digital learning resources and making them accessible through various online platforms. From the very beginning, he has taken complete responsibility for the production of our training videos, contributing at every stage of the process. His contributions include videography, creative direction, video editing, digital content production, theme development, thumbnail design, and the effective presentation of technical concepts using modern multimedia tools.
The visual identity, presentation style, and overall quality of our training videos reflect his creativity, technical expertise, and meticulous attention to detail. His dedication has significantly enhanced the reach and impact of our educational programs, enabling knowledge to be shared with students, researchers, engineers, and industrial professionals across a wider audience.
I express my sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to Mr. G. Prithivirajan for his invaluable support, creativity, encouragement, and unwavering commitment. His contributions have been an integral part of the growth and success of this training initiative, and I wish him continued success in all his future endeavors.
Our Students
Participants of the training programmes and workshops
I am sincerely thankful to all the students who have shared their valuable feedback on my training programmes and workshops.
I deeply appreciate their enthusiasm and their willingness to share their experiences and testimonials voluntarily, and I am grateful for their kind support in allowing those testimonials to be published on my YouTube channel, @aristatilganesan6443.
I sincerely thank all of them for their valuable participation, cooperation and encouragement. Their feedback and appreciation inspire me to continue training and educating students in the field of hydrogen energy and fuel cells.
My Family
Dr. S. Amuthalakshmi and A. A. Nishanth
Behind every successful journey is the unwavering support of a loving family. I express my heartfelt gratitude to my beloved wife, Dr. S. Amuthalakshmi, and my son, A. A. Nishanth, whose constant encouragement, patience, and understanding have been the foundation of my training journey.
Throughout the development of these training programs, they have stood by me with unwavering support and have contributed in numerous ways behind the scenes. Their assistance in the preparation of training materials, thoughtful encouragement, and willingness to support me during every stage of this initiative have been invaluable.
Their patience during the countless hours devoted to research, content development, recording, and training activities has been a constant source of strength and motivation. Their belief in my vision has inspired me to continue sharing knowledge with students, researchers, engineers, and industry professionals.
I extend my sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to my wife and son for their unconditional love, continuous encouragement, and invaluable support. This training initiative would not have been possible without their understanding, cooperation, and sacrifices. I am deeply grateful for their presence in my life and dedicate this endeavor to them with love and gratitude.
Website Development
Mr. Prajwal, Mr. N Venkat Swaroop and the engineering team, Bengaluru
I express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Prajwal, Mr. N Venkat Swaroop, and the entire engineering team from Bengaluru for their invaluable support in designing and developing this training website. Their creativity, technical expertise, and innovative ideas have been instrumental in transforming this vision into a professional and engaging online training platform. I sincerely appreciate their dedication, teamwork, and commitment throughout the development process, and I extend my heartfelt thanks and best wishes for their continued success.
Research scholars, faculty members, scientists and engineers — plus students who want an industry-relevant foundation in hydrogen technologies. Levels I and II assume no prior fuel cell experience.
Get in touch
Tell Dr. Ganesan what you're working on.
Whether you want to book a level, arrange training at your institution, or get materials tested — send a short message and you'll get a direct, practical reply.
WhatsApp+91 98945 28242Fastest reply — usually the same dayEmailcontact@fuelcellsinstitute.comFor formal enquiries, quotes and purchase ordersEmailarisamutha@gmail.comAlternate email addressYouTube@aristatilganesan6443Demonstrations, workshop recordings and talks
Where the training happensAatral Innovations Pvt. Ltd.No 36, Yellow Board, Muttukkadu, East Coast Road (ECR), Chennai, TN, India - 603 112. Or at your own institution, on request.https://aatralinnovations.com/https://hydrogenenergyinstitute.com/Get directions
You can choose your convenient days for the training, including holidays. There is no fixed batch calendar — sessions are arranged around what works for you.
— Dr. Aristatil Ganesan, Senior Scientist & Coach