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A Perspective on Hydrogen Investment, Deployment and Cost Competitiveness
Feb 2021
Publication
Deployment and investments in hydrogen have accelerated rapidly in response to government commitments to deep decarbonisation establishing hydrogen as a key component in the energy transition.
To help guide regulators decision-makers and investors the Hydrogen Council collaborated with McKinsey & Company to release the report ‘Hydrogen Insights 2021: A Perspective on Hydrogen Investment Deployment and Cost Competitiveness’. The report offers a comprehensive perspective on market deployment around the world investment momentum as well as implications on cost competitiveness of hydrogen solutions.
The document can be downloaded from their website
To help guide regulators decision-makers and investors the Hydrogen Council collaborated with McKinsey & Company to release the report ‘Hydrogen Insights 2021: A Perspective on Hydrogen Investment Deployment and Cost Competitiveness’. The report offers a comprehensive perspective on market deployment around the world investment momentum as well as implications on cost competitiveness of hydrogen solutions.
The document can be downloaded from their website
Earth Abundant Spinel for Hydrogen Production in a Chemical Looping Scheme at 550°C
Jun 2020
Publication
Operating chemical looping process at mid-temperatures (550-750 oC) presents exciting potential for the stable production of hydrogen. However the reactivity of oxygen carriers is compromised by the detrimental effect of the relatively low temperatures on the redox kinetics. Although the reactivity at mid-temperature can be improved by the addition of noble metals the high cost of these noble metal containing materials significantly hindered their scalable application. In the current work we propose to incorporate earth-abundant metals into the iron-based spinel for hydrogen production in a chemical looping scheme at mid-temperatures. Mn0.2Co0.4Fe2.4O4 shows a high hydrogen production rate at the average rate of ∼0.62 mmol.g-1.min-1 and a hydrogen yield of ∼9.29 mmol.g-1 with satisfactory stability over 20 cycles at 550 oC. The mechanism studies manifest that the enhanced hydrogen production performance is a result of the improved oxygen-ion conductivity to enhance reduction reaction and high reactivity of reduced samples with steam. The performance of the oxygen carriers in this work is comparable to those noble-metal containing materials enabling their potential for industrial applications.
Quantification of Temperature Dependence of Hydrogen Embrittlement in Pipeline Steel
Feb 2019
Publication
The effects of temperature on bulk hydrogen concentration and diffusion have been tested with the Devanathan–-Stachurski method. Thus a model based on hydrogen potential diffusivity loading frequency and hydrostatic stress distribution around crack tips was applied in order to quantify the temperature’s effect. The theoretical model was verified experimentally and confirmed a temperature threshold of 320 K to maximize the crack growth. The model suggests a nanoscale embrittlement mechanism which is generated by hydrogen atom delivery to the crack tip under fatigue loading and rationalized the ΔK dependence of traditional models. Hence this work could be applied to optimize operations that will prolong the life of the pipeline.
Review of Renewable Energy-based Hydrogen Production Processes for Sustainable Energy Innovation
Dec 2019
Publication
In this review we primarily analyze the hydrogen production technologies based on water and biomass including the economic technological and environmental impacts of different types of hydrogen production technologies based on these materials and comprehensively compare them. Our analyses indicate that all renewable energy-based approaches for hydrogen production are more environmentally friendly than fossil-based hydrogen generation approaches. However the technical ease and economic efficiency of hydrogen production from renewable sources of energy needs to be further improved in order to be applied on a large scale. Compared with other renewable energy-based methods hydrogen production via biomass electrolysis has several advantages including the ease of directly using raw biomass. Furthermore its environmental impact is smaller than other approaches. Moreover using a noble metal catalyst-free anode for this approach can ensure a considerably low power consumption which makes it a promising candidate for clean and efficient hydrogen production in the future.
Decarbonization Roadmaps for ASEAN and their Implications
Apr 2022
Publication
The objective of this paper is to derive for the first time decarbonization roadmaps for the ten nations of ASEAN. This study first presents a regional view of ASEAN’s fossil and renewable energy usage and energy-related CO2 emission. Results show that renewable energies have been losing ground to fossil energies in the last two decades and fossil fuels will likely continue to be an important part of ASEAN’s energy mix for the next few decades. Therefore decarbonizing efforts should focus not only on increasing the share of renewable energies in electricity generation but also on technologies to reduce CO2 emission from fossil power and industrial plants. This study next performs a technology mapping exercise for all ten ASEAN countries to determine decarbonization technologies that have high impact and high readiness for individual countries. Besides installing more sustainable renewable energies common themes coming from these roadmaps include switching from coal to gas for power generation using carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies to decarbonize fossil and industrial plants replacing internal combustion vehicles by electric vehicles and for countries that have coal and natural gas resources upgrading them to blue hydrogen by chemical processes and using CCS to mitigate the emitted CO2. Blue hydrogen can be used to decarbonize hard-to-decarbonize industries. Policy implications of these roadmaps include imposing a credible carbon tax establishing a national hydrogen strategy intergovernmental coordination to establish regional CCS corridors funding research and development to improve carbon capture efficiency on a plant level and resolving sustainability issues of hydropower and bioenergy in ASEAN.
Absence of Spillover of Hydrogen Adsorbed on Small Palladium Clusters Anchored to Graphene Vacancies
May 2021
Publication
Experimental evidence exists for the enhancement of the hydrogen storage capacity of porous carbons when these materials are doped with metal nanoparticles. One of the most studied dopants is palladium. Dissociation of the hydrogen molecules and spillover of the H atoms towards the carbon substrate has been advocated as the reason for the enhancement of the storage capacity. We have investigated this mechanism by performing ab initio density functional molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations of the deposition of molecular hydrogen on Pd6 clusters anchored on graphene vacancies. The clusters are initially near-saturated with atomic and molecular hydrogen. This condition would facilitate the occurrence of spillover since our energy calculations based on density functional theory indicate that migration of preadsorbed H atoms towards the graphene substrate becomes exothermic on Pd clusters with high hydrogen coverages. However AIMD simulations show that the H atoms prefer to intercalate and absorb within the Pd cluster rather than migrate to the carbon substrate. These results reveal that high activation barriers exist preventing the spillover of hydrogen from the anchored Pd clusters to the carbon substrate.
Mobile Phone Infrastructure Development: Lessons for the Development of a Hydrogen Infrastructure
Apr 2014
Publication
The development of new infrastructure is often a consideration in the introduction of new innovations. Currently there is some confusion around how to develop a hydrogen infrastructure to support the introduction of FCVs. Lessons can be learned from similar technology introduction in the past and therefore this paper investigates how mobile phone infrastructure was developed allowing the mass-market penetration of mobile phones. Based on this successful infrastructural development suggestions can be made on the development of a hydrogen infrastructure. It is suggested that a hydrogen infrastructure needs to be pre-developed 3–5 years before the market introduction of FCVs can successfully occur. A lack of infrastructural pre-development will cause to the market introduction of FCVs to fail.
Design and Dynamics Simulations of Small Scale Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Trigeneration System
Dec 2018
Publication
This paper presents the design of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) tri-generation system that consists of an SOFC-combined heat and power subsystem an adsorption refrigeration subsystem and coupling devices between the two subsystems. Whereas typical extant designs use absorption techniques the proposed design employs adsorption refrigeration. In this paper the dynamics of adsorption refrigeration are reported in detail to evaluate the feasibility of the tri-generation system design. The design of the coupling devices and instrumentation strategies of the overall system are discussed in detail. Simulation results indicate that the proposed SOFC trigeneration system can output 4.35 kW of electrical power 2.448 kW of exhaust heat power and 1.348 kW of cooling power. The energy efficiency is 64.9% and the coefficient of performance of the refrigeration is 0.32. Varying the electrical output power results in the variation of exhaust heat power but not the cooling power; varying the cooling power affects the exhaust heat power but not the electrical power. These favorable features can be attributed to the proposed heat exchange sequence and active temperature controls of the system.
H21- Phase 1 Technical Summary Report
May 2021
Publication
The UK Government signed legislation on 27th June 2019 committing the UK to a legally binding target of Net Zero emissions by 2050. Climate change is one of the most significant technical economic social and business challenges facing the world today.
The H21 NIC Phase 1 project delivered an optimally designed experimentation and testing programme supported by the HSE Science Division and DNV GL with the aim to collect quantifiable evidence to support that the UK distribution network of 2032 will be comparably as safe operating on 100% hydrogen as it currently is on
natural gas. This innovative project begins to fill critical safety evidence gaps surrounding the conversion of the UK gas network to 100% hydrogen. This will facilitate progression towards H21 Phase 2 Operational Safety Demonstrations and the H21 Phase 3 Live Trials to promote customer acceptability and ultimately aid progress towards a government policy decision on heat.
DNV GL and HSE Science Division were engaged to undertake the experimentation testing and QRA update programme of work. DNV GL and HSE Science Division also peer reviewed each other’s programme of work at various stages throughout the project undertaking a challenge and review of the experimental data and results to provide confidence in the conclusions.
A strategic set of tests was designed to cover the range of assets represented across the Great Britain gas distribution networks. The assets used in the testing were mostly recovered from the distribution network as part of the ongoing Iron Mains Risk Reduction Replacement Programme. Controlled testing against a well-defined master testing plan with both natural gas and 100% hydrogen was then undertaken to provide the quantitative evidence to forecast any change to background leakage levels in a 100% hydrogen network.
Key Findings from Phase 1a:
The H21 NIC Phase 1 project delivered an optimally designed experimentation and testing programme supported by the HSE Science Division and DNV GL with the aim to collect quantifiable evidence to support that the UK distribution network of 2032 will be comparably as safe operating on 100% hydrogen as it currently is on
natural gas. This innovative project begins to fill critical safety evidence gaps surrounding the conversion of the UK gas network to 100% hydrogen. This will facilitate progression towards H21 Phase 2 Operational Safety Demonstrations and the H21 Phase 3 Live Trials to promote customer acceptability and ultimately aid progress towards a government policy decision on heat.
DNV GL and HSE Science Division were engaged to undertake the experimentation testing and QRA update programme of work. DNV GL and HSE Science Division also peer reviewed each other’s programme of work at various stages throughout the project undertaking a challenge and review of the experimental data and results to provide confidence in the conclusions.
A strategic set of tests was designed to cover the range of assets represented across the Great Britain gas distribution networks. The assets used in the testing were mostly recovered from the distribution network as part of the ongoing Iron Mains Risk Reduction Replacement Programme. Controlled testing against a well-defined master testing plan with both natural gas and 100% hydrogen was then undertaken to provide the quantitative evidence to forecast any change to background leakage levels in a 100% hydrogen network.
Key Findings from Phase 1a:
- Of the 215 assets tested 41 of them were found to leak 19 of them provided sufficient data to be able to compare hydrogen and methane leak rates.
- The tests showed that assets that were gas tight on methane were also gas tight on hydrogen. Assets that leaked on hydrogen also leaked
- on methane including repaired assets.
- The ratio of the hydrogen to methane volumetric leak rates varied between 1.1 and 2.2 which is largely consistent with the bounding values expected for laminar and turbulent (or inertial) flow which gave ratios of 1.2 and 2.8 respectively.
- None of the PE assets leaked; cast ductile and spun iron leaked to a similar degree (around 26-29% of all iron assets leaked) and the proportion of leaking steel assets was slightly less (14%).
- Four types of joint were responsible for most of the leaks on joints: screwed lead yarn bolted gland and hook bolts.
- All of the repairs that sealed methane leaks also were effective when tested with hydrogen.
Towards an Understanding of Hydrogen Supply Chains: A Structured Literature Review Regarding Sustainability Evaluation
Oct 2021
Publication
Hydrogen technologies have received increased attention in research and development to foster the shift towards carbon-neutral energy systems. Depending on the specific production techniques transportation concepts and application areas hydrogen supply chains (HSCs) can be anything from part of the energy transition problem to part of the solution: Even more than battery-driven electric mobility hydrogen is a polyvalent technology and can be used in very different contexts with specific positive or negative sustainability impacts. Thus a detailed sustainability evaluation is crucial for decision making in the context of hydrogen technology and its diverse application fields. This article provides a comprehensive structured literature review in the context of HSCs along the triple bottom line dimensions of environmental economic and social sustainability analyzing a total of 288 research papers. As a result we identify research gaps mostly regarding social sustainability and the supply chain stages of hydrogen distribution and usage. We suggest further research to concentrate on these gaps thus strengthening our understanding of comprehensive sustainability evaluations for HSCs especially in social sustainability evaluation. In addition we provide an additional approach for discussion by adding literature review results from neighboring fields highlighting the joint challenges and insights regarding sustainability evaluation.
Modelling Decentralized Hydrogen Systems: Lessons Learned and Challenges from German Regions
Feb 2022
Publication
Green hydrogen produced by power‐to‐gas will play a major role in the defossilization of the energy system as it offers both carbon‐neutral chemical energy and the chance to provide flexibility. This paper provides an extensive analysis of hydrogen production in decentralized energy systems as well as possible operation modes (H2 generation or system flexibility). Modelling was realized for municipalities—the lowest administrative unit in Germany thus providing high spatial resolution—in the linear optimization framework OEMOF. The results allowed for a detailed regional analysis of the specific operating modes and were analyzed using full‐load hours share of used negative residual load installed capacity and levelized cost of hydrogen to derive the operation mode of power‐to‐gas to produce hydrogen. The results show that power‐to‐gas is mainly characterized by constant hydrogen production and rarely provides flexibility to the system. Main drivers of this dominant operation mode include future demand for hydrogen and the fact that high full‐load hours reduce hydrogen‐production costs. However changes in the regulatory market and technical framework could promote more flexibility and support possible use cases for the central technology to succeed in the energy transition.
Perspectives on Cathodes for Protonic Ceramic Fuel Cells
Jun 2021
Publication
Protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) are promising electrochemical devices for the efficient and clean conversion of hydrogen and low hydrocarbons into electrical energy. Their intermediate operation temperature (500–800 °C) proffers advantages in terms of greater component compatibility unnecessity of expensive noble metals for the electrocatalyst and no dilution of the fuel electrode due to water formation. Nevertheless the lower operating temperature in comparison to classic solid oxide fuel cells places significant demands on the cathode as the reaction kinetics are slower than those related to fuel oxidation in the anode or ion migration in the electrolyte. Cathode design and composition are therefore of crucial importance for the cell performance at low temperature. The different approaches that have been adopted for cathode materials research can be broadly classified into the categories of protonic–electronic conductors oxide-ionic–electronic conductors triple-conducting oxides and composite electrodes composed of oxides from two of the other categories. Here we review the relatively short history of PCFC cathode research discussing trends highlights and recent progress. Current understanding of reaction mechanisms is also discussed.
The Future Potential Hydrogen Demand in Energy-intensive Industries - A Site-specific Approach Applied to Germany
Dec 2021
Publication
Hydrogen when based on renewable electricity can play a key role in the transition towards CO2-neutral industrial production since its use as an energy carrier as well as a feedstock in various industrial process routes is promising. At the same time a large-scale roll-out of hydrogen for industrial use would entail substantial impacts on the energy system which can only be assessed if the regional distribution of future hydrogen demand is considered. Here we assess the technical potential of hydrogen-based technologies for energy-intensive industries in Germany. The site-specific and process-specific bottom-up calculation considers 615 individual plants at 367 sites and results in a total potential hydrogen demand of 326 TWh/a. The results are available as an open dataset. Using hydrogen for non-energy-intensive sectors as well increases the potential hydrogen demand to between 482 and 534 TWh/a for Germany - based on today’s industrial structure and production output. This assumes that fossil fuels are almost completely replaced by hydrogen for process heating and feedstocks. The resulting hydrogen demand is very unevenly distributed: a few sites account for the majority of the overall potential and similarly the bulk of demand is concentrated in a few regions with steel and chemical clusters.
Thoughts on the Prospects of Renewable Hydrogen
Oct 2020
Publication
In the last two years or so there has been increasing interest in hydrogen as an energy source in Australia and around the world. Notably this is not the first time that hydrogen has caught our collective interest. Most recently the 2000s saw a substantial investment in hydrogen research development and demonstration around the world. Prior to that the oil crises of the 1970s also stimulated significant investment in hydrogen and earlier still the literature on hydrogen was not lacking. And yet the hydrogen economy is still an idea only.<br/>So what if anything might be different this time?<br/>This is an important question that we all need to ask and for which the author can only give two potential answers. First our need to make dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has become more pressing since these previous waves of interest. Second renewable energy is considerably more affordable now than it was before and it has consistently outperformed expectations in terms of cost reductions by even its strongest supporters.<br/>While this dramatic and ongoing reduction in the cost of renewables is very promising our need to achieve substantial GHG emission reductions is the crucial challenge. Moreover meeting this challenge needs to be achieved with as little adverse social and economic impact as possible.<br/>When considering what role hydrogen might play we should first think carefully about the massive scale and complexity of our global energy system and the typical prices of the major energy commodities. This provides insights into what opportunities hydrogen may have. Considering a temperate country with a small population like Australia we see that domestic natural gas and transport fuel markets are comparable to and even larger than the electricity market on an energy basis.
A Comparative Review of Alternative Fuels for the Maritime Sector: Economic, Technology, and Policy Challenges for Clean Energy Implementation
Oct 2021
Publication
Global maritime transportation is responsible for around 3% of total anthropogenic green‐ house gas emissions and significant proportions of SOx NOx and PM emissions. Considering the predicted growth in shipping volumes to 2050 greenhouse gas emissions from ships must be cut by 75–85% per ton‐mile to meet Paris Agreement goals. This study reviews the potential of a range of alternative fuels for decarbonisation in maritime. A systematic literature review and information synthesis method was applied to evaluate fuel characteristics production pathways utilization technologies energy efficiency lifecycle environmental performance economic viability and cur‐ rent applicable policies. Alternative fuels are essential to decarbonisation in international shipping. However findings suggest there is no single route to deliver the required greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Emissions reductions vary widely depending on the production pathways of the fuel. Alternative fuels utilising a carbon‐intensive production pathway will not provide decarbonisation instead shifting emissions elsewhere in the supply chain. Ultimately a system‐wide perspective to creating an effective policy framework is required in order to promote the adoption of alternative propulsion technologies.
Investigation of Turbulent Premixed Methane/Air and Hydrogen-enriched Methane/Air Flames in a Laboratory-scale Gas Turbine Model Combustor
Feb 2021
Publication
Methane and hydrogen-enriched (25 vol% and 50 vol% H2 -enriched CH4) methane/air premixed flames were investigated in a gas turbine model combustor under atmospheric conditions. The flame operability ranges were mapped at different Reynold numbers (Re) showing the dependence on Re and H2 concentrations. The effects of equivalence ratio (Φ) Re and H2 enrichment on flame structure were examined employing OH-PLIF measurement. For CH4/air cases the flame was stabilized with an M shape; while for H2 -enriched cases the flame transitions to a П shape above a specific Φ. This transition was observed to influence significantly the flashback limits. The flame shape transition is most likely a result of H2 enrichment occurring due to the increase in flame speed higher resistance of the flame to the strain rate and change in the inner recirculation zone. Flow fields of CH4/air flames were compared between low and high Re cases employing high-speed PIV. The flashback events led by two mechanisms (combustion-induced vortex breakdown CIVB and boundary-layer flashback BLF) were observed and recorded using high-speed OH chemiluminescence imaging. It was found that the CIVB flashback occurred only for CH4 flames with M shape whereas the BLF occurs for all H2 -enriched flames with П shape.
Dislocation and Twinning Behaviors in High Manganese Steels in Respect to Hydrogen and Aluminum Alloying
Dec 2018
Publication
The dislocation and twinning evolution behaviors in high manganese steels Fe-22Mn-0.6C and Fe-17Mn-1.5Al-0.6C have been investigated under tensile deformation with and without diffusive hydrogen. The notched tensile tests were interrupted once primary cracks were detected using the applied direct current potential drop measurement. In parallel the strain distribution in the vicinity of the crack was characterized by digital image correlation using GOM optical system. The microstructure surrounding the crack was investigated by electron backscatter diffraction. Electron channeling contrast imaging was applied to reveal the evolution of dislocations stacking faults and deformation twins with respect to the developed strain gradient and amount of hydrogen. The results show that the diffusive hydrogen at the level of 26 ppm has a conspicuous effect on initiating stacking faults twin bundles and activating multiple deformation twinning systems in Fe-22Mn-0.6C. Eventually the interactions between deformation twins and grain boundaries lead to grain boundary decohesion in this material. In comparison hydrogen does not obviously affect the microstructure evolution namely the twinning thickness and the amount of activated twinning systems in Fe-17Mn-1.5Al-0.6C. The Al-alloyed grade reveals a postponed nucleation of deformation twins delayed onset of the secondary twinning system and develops finer twinning lamellae in comparison to the Al-free material. These observations explain the improved resistance to hydrogen-induced cracking in Al-alloyed TWIP steels.
Technology Assessment of Hydrogen Firing of Process Heaters
Apr 2011
Publication
In conjunction with John Zink Co. LLC the Chevron Energy Technology Company conducted a three part study evaluating potential issues with switching refinery process heaters from fuel gas to hydrogen fuel for the purpose of greenhouse gas emissions reduction via CO2 capture and storage.
The focus was on the following areas:
The focus was on the following areas:
- Heater performance
- Burner performance and robustness
- Fuel gas system retrofit requirements
Comparative Technical and Economic Analyses of Hydrogen-Based Steel and Power Sectors
Mar 2024
Publication
Decarbonizing the current steel and power sectors through the development of the hydrogen direct-reduction iron ore–electric arc furnace route and the 100% hydrogen-fired gas turbine cycle is crucial. The current study focuses on three clusters of research works. The first cluster covers the investigation of the mass and energy balance of the route and the subsequent application of these values in experiments to optimize the reduction yield of iron ore. In the second cluster the existing gas turbine unit was selected for the complete replacement of natural gas with hydrogen and for finding the most optimal mass and energy balance in the cycle through an Aspen HYSYS model. In addition the chemical kinetics in the hydrogen combustion process were simulated using Ansys Chemkin Pro to research the emissions. In the last cluster a comparative economic analysis was conducted to identify the levelized cost of production of the route and the levelized cost of electricity of the cycle. The findings in the economic analysis provided good insight into the details of the capital and operational expenditures of each industrial sector in understanding the impact of each kg of hydrogen consumed in the plants. These findings provide a good basis for future research on reducing the cost of hydrogen-based steel and power sectors. Moreover the outcomes of this study can also assist ongoing large-scale hydrogen and ammonia projects in Uzbekistan in terms of designing novel hydrogen-based industries with cost-effective solutions.
Fuel Cells and Hydrogen for Green Energy in European Cities and Regions
Sep 2018
Publication
Fuel cells and hydrogen are a viable solution for European regions and cities to reduce their emissions and realise their green energy transition says new FCH JU study.
In 2017 the FCH JU launched an initiative to support regions and cities in this regard. Today 89 regions and cities participate representing about one quarter of Europe's population surface area and GDP. These regions are pursuing ambitious plans to deploy FCH technology in the coming years. FCH investments totalling about EUR 1.8 billion are planned for these regions in the next 5 years. These planned investments can contribute significantly to further developing the FCH market in Europe and driving the sector towards commercialisation.
The new study provides a detailed insight into the FCH investment plans of the participating regions and cities and points out next steps to be taken for realising a European FCH roadmap with a view to commercialising the technology. In particular the study shows that:
In 2017 the FCH JU launched an initiative to support regions and cities in this regard. Today 89 regions and cities participate representing about one quarter of Europe's population surface area and GDP. These regions are pursuing ambitious plans to deploy FCH technology in the coming years. FCH investments totalling about EUR 1.8 billion are planned for these regions in the next 5 years. These planned investments can contribute significantly to further developing the FCH market in Europe and driving the sector towards commercialisation.
The new study provides a detailed insight into the FCH investment plans of the participating regions and cities and points out next steps to be taken for realising a European FCH roadmap with a view to commercialising the technology. In particular the study shows that:
- European regions and cities need to take action now to realise their ambitious emission reduction targets and improve local air quality.
- Investing in fuel cell and hydrogen technology pays off for cities and regions as it provides a mature safe and competitive zero-emission solution for all their energy needs.
- Regions and cities can benefit from investing in hydrogen and fuel cells not only in environmental terms but also by stimulating local economic growth and creating attractive places to live work and visit.
- The Regions and Cities Initiative provides a unique opportunity to benefit from existing knowledge draw on project development support and financing assistance to realise own FCH deployment projects.
- To enable the realisation of the envisaged FCH deployment plans of the regions and cities continued support will be required for individual projects as well as the coalition at large.
Ab Initio Study of the Combined Effects of Alloying Elements and H on Grain Boundary Cohesion in Ferritic Steels
Mar 2019
Publication
Hydrogen enhanced decohesion is expected to play a major role in ferritic steels especially at grain boundaries. Here we address the effects of some common alloying elements C V Cr and Mn on the H segregation behaviour and the decohesion mechanism at a Σ5(310)[001] 36.9∘ grain boundary in bcc Fe using spin polarized density functional theory calculations. We find that V Cr and Mn enhance grain boundary cohesion. Furthermore all elements have an influence on the segregation energies of the interstitial elements as well as on these elements’ impact on grain boundary cohesion. V slightly promotes segregation of the cohesion enhancing element C. However none of the elements increase the cohesion enhancing effect of C and reduce the detrimental effect of H on interfacial cohesion at the same time. At an interface which is co-segregated with C H and a substitutional element C and H show only weak interaction and the highest work of separation is obtained when the substitute is Mn.
Expert Opinion Analysis on Renewable Hydrogen Storage Systems Potential in Europe
Nov 2016
Publication
Among the several typologies of storage technologies mainly on different physical principles (mechanical electrical and chemical) hydrogen produced by power to gas (P2G) from renewable energy sources complies with chemical storage principle and is based on the conversion of electrical energy into chemical energy by means of the electrolysis of water which does not produce any toxic or climate-relevant emission. This paper aims to pinpoint the potential uses of renewable hydrogen storage systems in Europe analysing current and potential locations regulatory framework governments’ outlooks economic issues and available renewable energy amounts. The expert opinion survey already used in many research articles on different topics including energy has been selected as an effective method to produce realistic results. The obtained results highlight strategies and actions to optimize the storage of hydrogen produced by renewables to face varying electricity demand and generation-driven fluctuations reducing the negative effects of the increasing share of renewables in the energy mix of European Countries.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Hydrogen and Electricity Production by Biomass Calcium Looping Gasification
Feb 2022
Publication
Combined cycle biomass calcium looping gasification is proposed for a hydrogen and electricity production (CLGCC–H) system. The process simulation Aspen Plus is used to conduct techno-economic analysis of the CLGCC–H system. The appropriate detailed models are set up for the proposed system. Furthermore a dual fluidized bed is optimized for hydrogen production at 700 °C and 12 bar. For comparison calcium looping gasification with the combined cycle for electricity (CLGCC) is selected with the same parameters. The system exergy and energy efficiency of CLGCC–H reached as high as 60.79% and 64.75% while the CLGCC system had 51.22% and 54.19%. The IRR and payback period of the CLGCC–H system based on economic data are calculated as 17.43% and 7.35 years respectively. However the CLGCC system has an IRR of 11.45% and a payback period of 9.99 years respectively. The results show that the calcium looping gasification-based hydrogen and electricity coproduction system has a promising market prospect in the near future.
In Situ Formed Ultrafine Metallic Ni from Nickel (II) Acetylacetonate Precursor to Realize an Exceptional Hydrogen Storage Performance of MgH2–Ni-EG Nanocomposite
Dec 2021
Publication
It has been well known that doping nano-scale catalysts can significantly improve both the kinetics and reversible hydrogen storage capacity of MgH2. However so far it is still a challenge to directly synthesize ultrafine catalysts (e.g. < 5 nm) mainly because of the complicated chemical reaction processes. Here a facile one-step high-energy ball milling process is developed to in situ form ultrafine Ni nanoparticles from the nickel acetylacetonate precursor in the MgH2 matrix. With the combined action of ultrafine metallic Ni and expanded graphite (EG) the formed MgH2–Ni-EG nanocomposite with the optimized doping amounts of Ni and EG can still release 7.03 wt.% H2 within 8.5 min at 300 °C after 10 cycles. At a temperature close to room temperature (50 °C) it can also absorb 2.42 wt.% H2 within 1 h It can be confirmed from the microstructural characterization analysis that the in situ formed ultrafine metallic Ni is transformed into Mg2Ni/Mg2NiH4 in the subsequent hydrogen absorption and desorption cycles. It is calculated that the dehydrogenation activation energy of the MgH2–Ni-EG nanocomposite is also reduced obviously in comparison with the pure MgH2. Our work provides a methodology to significantly improve the hydrogen storage performance of MgH2 by combining the in situ formed and uniformly dispersed ultrafine metallic catalyst from the precursor and EG.
Fabrication of CdS/β-SiC/TiO2 Tri-composites That Exploit Hole- and Electron-transfer Processes for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production Under Visible Light
Dec 2017
Publication
In this work CdS/SiC/TiO2 tri-composite photocatalysts that exploit electron- and hole-transfer processes were fabricated using an easy two-step method in the liquid phase. The photocatalyst with a 1:1:1 M ratio of CdS/SiC/TiO2 exhibited a rate of hydrogen evolution from an aqueous solution of sodium sulfite and sodium sulfide under visible light of 137 μmol h−1 g−1 which is 9.5 times that of pure CdS. β-SiC can act as a sink for the photogenerated holes because the valence band level of β-SiC is higher than the corresponding bands in CdS and TiO2. In addition the level of the conduction band of TiO2 is lower than those of CdS and β-SiC so TiO2 can act as the acceptor of the photogenerated electrons. Our results demonstrate that hole transfer and absorption in the visible light region lead to an effective hydrogen-production scheme.
Methane Pyrolysis in a Molten Gallium Bubble Column Reactor for Sustainable Hydrogen Production: Proof of Concept & Techno-economic Assessment
Dec 2020
Publication
Nowadays nearly 50% of the hydrogen produced worldwide comes from Steam Methane Reforming (SMR) at an environmental burden of 10.5 tCO2 eq/tH2 accelerating the consequences of global warming. One way to produce clean hydrogen is via methane pyrolysis using melts of metals and salts. Compared to SMR significant less CO2 is produced due to conversion of methane into hydrogen and carbon making this route more sustainable to generate hydrogen. Hydrogen is produced with high purity and solid carbon is segregated and deposited on the molten bath. Carbon may be sold as valuable co-product making industrial scale promising. In this work methane pyrolysis was performed in a quartz bubble column using molten gallium as heat transfer agent and catalyst. A maximum conversion of 91% was achieved at 1119 °C and ambient pressure with a residence time of the bubbles in the liquid of 0.5 s. Based on in-depth analysis of the carbon it can be characterized as carbon black. Techno-economic and sensitivity analyses of the industrial concept were done for different scenarios. The results showed that if co-product carbon is saleable and a CO2 tax of 50 euro per tonne is imposed to the processes the molten metal technology can be competitive with SMR.
MELCOR Analysis of a SPARC Experiment for Spray-PAR Interaction During a Hydrogen Release
Oct 2020
Publication
A series of experiments were performed in the SPARC (spray-aerosol-recombiner-combustion) test facility to simulate a hydrogen mitigation system with the actuation of a PAR (passive auto-catalytic re-combiner) and spray system. In this study the SPARC-SPRAY-PAR (SSP1) experiment is chosen to benchmark the MELCOR (a lumped-parameter code for severe accident analysis) predictions against test data. For this purpose firstly we prepared the base input model of the SPARC test vessel and tested it by a simple verification problem with well-defined boundary conditions. The implementation of a currently used PAR correlation in MELCOR is shown to be appropriate for the simulation of a PAR actuation experiment. In an SSP1 experiment the PAR is reacting with hydrogen and the spray actuation starts as soon as hydrogen injection is complete. The MELCOR simulation well predicts the pressure behavior and the gas flow affected by operating both a PAR and spray system. However the local hydrogen concentration measurement near the inlet nozzle is much higher than the volume average-value by MELCOR since high jet flow from the nozzle is dispersed in the corresponding cell volume. The experimental reproduction of the phenomena we expect or conversely the identification of phenomena we do not understand will continue to support the verification of analytical models using experimental data and to analyze the impact of spray on PAR operations in severe accident conditions.
Hydrogen Permeation Studies of Composite Supported Alumina-carbon Molecular Sieves Membranes: Separation of Diluted Hydrogen from Mixtures with Methane
Jun 2020
Publication
One alternative for the storage and transport of hydrogen is blending a low amount of hydrogen (up to 15 or 20%) into existing natural gas grids. When demanded hydrogen can be then separated close to the end users using membranes. In this work composite alumina carbon molecular sieves membranes (Al-CMSM) supported on tubular porous alumina have been prepared and characterized. Single gas permeation studies showed that the H2/CH4 separation properties at 30 °C are well above the Robeson limit of polymeric membranes. H2 permeation studies of the H2–CH4 mixture gases containing 5–20% of H2 show that the H2 purity depends on the H2 content in the feed and the operating temperature. In the best scenario investigated in this work for samples containing 10% of H2 with an inlet pressure of 7.5 bar and permeated pressure of 0.01 bar at 30 °C the H2 purity obtained was 99.4%.
Hydrogen Implications for Gas Network Operators
Jan 2021
Publication
Europe has built up one of the best gas distribution infrastructures in the world. There’s one problem though. It distributes natural gas a fuel that we will hardly be able to use if we’re to reach our net zero targets. Can we use the infrastructure instead for clean hydrogen – either blended with natural gas as a stepping stone or with pure hydrogen in the future? In this episode we put aside discussion on the extent to which we should do this – and focus on whether or not we can do this and what’s involved in doing so.
Jon Slowe is joined by Eva Hennig Head of Department for EU Energy Policy at Thüga an alliance of German municipal energy companies (as well as chair of Eurogas’s distribution committee); Keith Owen Head of Systems Development and Energy Strategy at Northern Gas Networks in the UK; and Delta-EE expert Rob Castek.
Jon Slowe is joined by Eva Hennig Head of Department for EU Energy Policy at Thüga an alliance of German municipal energy companies (as well as chair of Eurogas’s distribution committee); Keith Owen Head of Systems Development and Energy Strategy at Northern Gas Networks in the UK; and Delta-EE expert Rob Castek.
Fatigue Crack Growth in Operated Gas Pipeline Steels
Jun 2020
Publication
Regularities of fatigue crack growth for pipeline steels of different strength are presented and the changes in fatigue behavior of these steels after long term operation are analyzed. Threshold values of stress intensity factor range are lower for operated steels comparing to the corresponding values for as received ones. During the testing in the simulated soil solution NS4 a barely noticeable tendency to increase the threshold values of SIF was traced. It was explained by the appearance of intergranular fracture elements on the backgrownd of the typical flat fatigue relief already in the near-threshold region of fatigue crack growth curves in the soil solution. A higher relief of intergranular facets provided favorable conditions for occurrence of crack closure effect.<br/>Fatigue testing was performed using steel specimens after in-laboratory and in-service degradation and it was shown that results for both degraded steels are very close to each other proving the validity of the method of in-laboratory degradation. A new methodic approach to fatigue testing of pipe steels is presented which allows simulating working conditions of gas pipelines namely the hydrogen diffusion through the pipe wall to its external surface and estimating its possible effect on SCC. It consists in evaluation of the influence of hydrogen reached the crack tip only due to its diffusion on the crack growth. It is found that hydrogen absorbed by metal during the test providing such conditions causes a leap of crack growth rate in the Paris region of the fatigue crack growth curve of the tested 17H1S steel. Intergranular mechanism of fracture detected on the specimen fracture surface is suggested as a clear evidence of embrittlement of grain boundaries as a result of its hydrogenation.
A New Model For Hydrogen-Induced Crack (HIC) Growth in Metal Alloy Pipelines Under Extreme Pressure
Dec 2020
Publication
Pipeline failure caused by Hydrogen-Induced Cracking (HIC) also known as Hydrogen Embrittlement (HE) is a pressing issue for the oil and natural gas industry. Bursts in pipelines are devastating and extremely costly. The explosive force of a bursting pipe can inflict fatal injuries to workers while the combined loss of product and effort to repair are highly costly to producers. Further pipeline failures due to HIC have a long lasting impact on the surrounding environment. Safe use and operation of such pipelines depend on a good understanding of the underlying forces that cause HIC. Specifically a reliable way to predict the growth rate of hydrogen-induced cracks is needed to establish a safe duration of service for each length of pipeline. Pipes that have exceeded or are near the end of their service life can then be retired before the risk of HIC-related failures becomes too high. However little is known about the mechanisms that drive HIC. To date no model has been put forth that accurately predicts the growth rate of fractures due to HIC under extreme pressures such as in the context of natural gas and petroleum pipelines. Herein a mathematical model for the growth of fractures by HIC under extreme pressures is presented. This model is derived from first principles and the results are compared with other models. The implications of these findings are discussed and a description of future work based on these findings is presented.
Evaluation of Safety Measures of a Hydrogen Fueling Station Using Physical Modeling
Oct 2018
Publication
Hydrogen fueling stations are essential for operating fuel cell vehicles. If multiple safety measures in a hydrogen fueling station fail simultaneously it could lead to severe consequences. To analyze the risk of such a situation we developed a physical model of a hydrogen fueling station which when using the temperature pressure and flow rate of hydrogen could be simulated under normal and abnormal operating states. The physical model was validated by comparing the analytical results with the experimental results of an actual hydrogen fueling station. By combining the physical model with a statistical method we evaluated the significance of the safety measures in the event wherein multiple safety measures fail simultaneously. We determined the combinations of failures of safety measures that could lead to accidents and suggested a measure for preventing and mitigating the accident scenario.
Hydrogen Technologies Safety Guide
Jan 2015
Publication
The purpose of this guide is to provide basic background information on hydrogen technologies. It is not intended to be a comprehensive collection of hydrogen technologies safety information. It is intended to provide project developers code officials and other interested parties the background information to be able to put hydrogen safety in context. For example code officials reviewing permit applications for hydrogen projects will get an understanding of the industrial history of hydrogen basic safety concerns and safety requirements.
Comparative Study of Battery Storage and Hydrogen Storage to Increase Photovoltaic Self-sufficiency in a Residential Building of Sweden
Dec 2016
Publication
Photovoltaic (PV) is promising to supply power for residential buildings. Battery is the most widely employed storage method to mitigate the intermittence of PV and to overcome the mismatch between production and load. Hydrogen storage is another promising method that it is suitable for long-term storage. This study focuses on the comparison of self-sufficiency ratio and cost performance between battery storage and hydrogen storage for a residential building in Sweden. The results show that battery storage is superior to the hydrogen storage in the studied case. Sensitivity study of the component cost within the hydrogen storage system is also carried out. Electrolyzer cost is the most sensitive factor for improving system performance. A hybrid battery and hydrogen storage system which can harness the advantages of both battery and hydrogen storages is proposed in the last place.
The ‘Green’ Ni-UGSO Catalyst for Hydrogen Production under Various Reforming Regimes
Jun 2021
Publication
A new spinelized Ni catalyst (Ni-UGSO) using Ni(NO3)2·6H2O as the Ni precursor was prepared according to a less material intensive protocol. The support of this catalyst is a negative-value mining residue UpGraded Slag Oxide (UGSO) produced from a TiO2 slag production unit. Applied to dry reforming of methane (DRM) at atmospheric pressure T = 810 °C space velocity of 3400 mL/(h·g) and molar CO2/CH4 = 1.2 Ni-UGSO gives a stable over 168 h time-on-stream methane conversion of 92%. In this DRM reaction optimization study: (1) the best performance is obtained with the 10–13 wt% Ni load; (2) the Ni-UGSO catalysts obtained from two different batches of UGSO demonstrated equivalent performances despite their slight differences in composition; (3) the sulfur-poisoning resistance study shows that at up to 5.5 ppm no Ni-UGSO deactivation is observed. In steam reforming of methane (SRM) Ni-UGSO was tested at 900 °C and a molar ratio of H2O/CH4 = 1.7. In this experimental range CH4 conversion rapidly reached 98% and remained stable over 168 h time-on-stream (TOS). The same stability is observed for H2 and CO yields at around 92% and 91% respectively while H2/CO was close to 3. In mixed (dry and steam) methane reforming using a ratio of H2O/CH4 = 0.15 and CO2/CH4 = 0.97 for 74 h and three reaction temperature levels (828 °C 847 °C and 896 °C) CH4 conversion remains stable; 80% at 828 °C (26 h) 85% at 847 °C (24 h) and 95% at 896 °C (24 h). All gaseous streams have been analyzed by gas chromatography. Both fresh and used catalysts are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy-electron dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDXS) X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) coupled with mass spectroscopy (MS) and BET Specific surface. In the reducing environment of reforming such catalytic activity is mainly attributed to (a) alloys such as FeNi FeNi3 and Fe3Ni2 (reduction of NiFe2O4 FeNiAlO4) and (b) to the solid solution NiO-MgO. The latter is characterized by a molecular distribution of the catalytically active Ni phase while offering an environment that prevents C deposition due to its alkalinity.
Recent Research Progress in Hybrid Photovoltaic–Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell Microgrid Systems
May 2022
Publication
Hybrid photovoltaic–regenerative hydrogen fuel cell (PV-RHFC) microgrid systems are considered to have a high future potential in the effort to increase the renewable energy share in the form of solar PV technology with hydrogen generation storage and reutilization. The current study provides a comprehensive review of the recent research progress of hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems to extract conclusions on their characteristics and future prospects. The different components that can be integrated (PV modules electrolyzer and fuel cell stacks energy storage units power electronics and controllers) are analyzed in terms of available technology options. The main modeling and optimization methods and control strategies are discussed. Additionally various application options are provided which differentiate in terms of scale purpose and further integration with other power generating and energy storage technologies. Finally critical analysis and discussion of hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems were conducted based on their current status. Overall the commercialization of hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems requires a significant drop in the RHFC subsystem capital cost. In addition it will be necessary to produce complete hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems with integrated energy management control capabilities to avoid operational issues and ensure flexibility and reliability of the energy flow in relation to supply storage and demand.
How Hydrogen Can Help Decarbonise the Maritime Sector
Jun 2021
Publication
Hydrogen Europe is the organisation representing the interests of the European hydrogen industry. It fully adheres to the European Union’s target of climate neutrality by 2050 and supports the European Commission’s objectives to develop and integrate more renewable energy sources into the European energy mix.<br/><br/>In December 2015 in Paris a global climate agreement was reached at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 21). The Paris Agreement is seen as a historic and landmark instrument in climate action. However the agreement is lacking emphasis on international maritime transport and the role that this sector will need to play in contributing to the decarbonisation of the global economy and in striving for a clean planet for all.<br/><br/>Hydrogen hydrogen-based fuels (such as ammonia) and hydrogen technologies offer tremendous potential for the maritime sector<br/>and if properly harnessed can significantly contribute to the decarbonisation and also mitigate the air pollution of the worldwide fleet. Hydrogen Europe will be the catalyst in this process the decarbonisation and also mitigate the air pollution of the worldwide fleet. Hydrogen Europe will be the catalyst in this process.<br/><br/>The pathway towards hydrogen and hydrogenbased fuels for the maritime sector does not come without technological and commercial challenges let alone regulatory barriers.
Hydrogen Economy Outlook
Mar 2020
Publication
The falling cost of making hydrogen from wind and solar power offers a promising route to cutting emissions in some of the most fossil fuel dependent sectors of the economy such as steel heavy-duty vehicles shipping and cement.
Hydrogen Economy Outlook a new and independent global study from research firm BloombergNEF (BNEF) finds that clean hydrogen could be deployed in the decades to come to cut up to 34% of global greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels and industry – at a manageable cost. However this will only be possible if policies are put in place to help scale up technology and drive down costs.
The report’s findings suggest that renewable hydrogen could be produced for $0.8 to $1.6/kg in most parts of the world before 2050. This is equivalent to gas priced at $6-12/MMBtu making it competitive with current natural gas prices in Brazil China India Germany and Scandinavia on an energy-equivalent basis. When including the cost of storage and pipeline infrastructure the delivered cost of renewable hydrogen in China India and Western Europe could fall to around $2/kg ($15/MMBtu) in 2030 and $1/kg ($7.4/MMBtu) in 2050.
Kobad Bhavnagri head of industrial decarbonization for BNEF and lead author of the report said: “Hydrogen has potential to become the fuel that powers a clean economy. In the years ahead it will be possible to produce it at low cost using wind and solar power to store it underground for months and then to pipe it on-demand to power everything from ships to steel mills.”
Hydrogen is a clean-burning molecule that can be used as a substitute for coal oil and gas in a large variety of applications. But for its use to have net environmental benefits it must be produced from clean sources rather than from unabated fossil fuel processes – the usual method at present.
Renewable hydrogen can be made by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated by cheap wind or solar power. The cost of the electrolyzer technology to do this has fallen by 40% in the last five years and can continue to slide if deployment increases. Clean hydrogen can also be made using fossil fuels if the carbon is captured and stored but this is likely to be more expensive the report finds.
Read the full report on the BloombergNEF website here
Hydrogen Economy Outlook a new and independent global study from research firm BloombergNEF (BNEF) finds that clean hydrogen could be deployed in the decades to come to cut up to 34% of global greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels and industry – at a manageable cost. However this will only be possible if policies are put in place to help scale up technology and drive down costs.
The report’s findings suggest that renewable hydrogen could be produced for $0.8 to $1.6/kg in most parts of the world before 2050. This is equivalent to gas priced at $6-12/MMBtu making it competitive with current natural gas prices in Brazil China India Germany and Scandinavia on an energy-equivalent basis. When including the cost of storage and pipeline infrastructure the delivered cost of renewable hydrogen in China India and Western Europe could fall to around $2/kg ($15/MMBtu) in 2030 and $1/kg ($7.4/MMBtu) in 2050.
Kobad Bhavnagri head of industrial decarbonization for BNEF and lead author of the report said: “Hydrogen has potential to become the fuel that powers a clean economy. In the years ahead it will be possible to produce it at low cost using wind and solar power to store it underground for months and then to pipe it on-demand to power everything from ships to steel mills.”
Hydrogen is a clean-burning molecule that can be used as a substitute for coal oil and gas in a large variety of applications. But for its use to have net environmental benefits it must be produced from clean sources rather than from unabated fossil fuel processes – the usual method at present.
Renewable hydrogen can be made by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated by cheap wind or solar power. The cost of the electrolyzer technology to do this has fallen by 40% in the last five years and can continue to slide if deployment increases. Clean hydrogen can also be made using fossil fuels if the carbon is captured and stored but this is likely to be more expensive the report finds.
Read the full report on the BloombergNEF website here
The Heralds of Hydrogen: The Economic Sectors that are Driving the Hydrogen Economy in Europe
Jan 2021
Publication
This paper looked at 39 hydrogen associations across Europe to understand which economic sectors support the hydrogen transition in Europe and why they do so. Several broad conclusions can be drawn from this paper. It is clear that the support for hydrogen is broad and from a very wide spectrum of economic actors that have clear interests in the success of the hydrogen transition. Motivations for support differ. Sales and market growth are important for companies pursuing professional scientific and technical activities as well as manufacturers of chemicals machinery electronic or electrical equipment and fabricated metals. The increasing cost of CO2 combines with regulatory and societal pressure to decarbonize and concerns from investors about the long-term profitability of sectors with high emissions. This makes hydrogen especially interesting for companies working in the energy transport steel and chemical industries. Another motivation is the ability to keep using existing fixed assets relevant for ports oil and gas companies and natural gas companies. More sector-specific concerns are a technological belief held by some motor vehicle manufacturers in the advantages of FCVs over BEVs for private mobility which is held more widely regarding heavy road transport. Security of supply and diversifying the current business portfolio come up specifically for natural gas companies. Broader concerns about having to shift into other energy technologies as a core business are reasons for interest from the oil and gas sector and ports.
Perhaps the most important lesson is that the hydrogen transition has already begun – but it needs continued policy support and political commitment. Carbon-intensive industries such as steel and chemicals are clearly interested and willing to invest billions but need policy support to avoid carbon leakage to high-carbon competitors before they commit. The gas grid is ready and many operators and utility companies are eager but they need clearance to experiment with blending in hydrogen. Hydrogen road vehicles still face many regulatory hurdles. There are several clusters that can serve as models and nuclei for the future European hydrogen economy in different parts of Europe. However these nuclei will need more public funding and regulatory support for them to grow.
Link to document on Oxford Institute for Energy Studies website
Perhaps the most important lesson is that the hydrogen transition has already begun – but it needs continued policy support and political commitment. Carbon-intensive industries such as steel and chemicals are clearly interested and willing to invest billions but need policy support to avoid carbon leakage to high-carbon competitors before they commit. The gas grid is ready and many operators and utility companies are eager but they need clearance to experiment with blending in hydrogen. Hydrogen road vehicles still face many regulatory hurdles. There are several clusters that can serve as models and nuclei for the future European hydrogen economy in different parts of Europe. However these nuclei will need more public funding and regulatory support for them to grow.
Link to document on Oxford Institute for Energy Studies website
Continuous Synthesis of Few-layer MoS2 with Highly Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Apr 2020
Publication
As one of the most promising alternative fuels hydrogen is expected with high hopes. The electrolysis of water is regarded as the cleanest and most efficient method of hydrogen production. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is deemed as one of the most promising alternatives HER catalysts owing to its high catalytic activity and low cost. Its continuous production and efficient preparation become the key problems in future industrial production. In this work we first developed a continuous micro-reaction approach with high heat and mass transfer rates to synthesize few-layer MoS2 nanoplates with abundant active sites. The defective MoS2 ultrathin nanoplates exhibit excellent HER performance with an overpotential of 260 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm-2 small Tafel slope (53.6 mV dec-1) and prominent durability which are comparable to most reported MoS2 based catalysts. Considering the existence of continuous devices it’s suitable for the synthesis of MoS2 as high-performance electrocatalysts for the industrial water electrolysis. The novel preparation method may open up a new way to synthesize all two-dimension materials toward HER.
Loss of Integrity of Hydrogen Technologies: A Critical Review
Jul 2020
Publication
Hydrogen is one of the main candidates in replacing fossil fuels in the forthcoming years. However hydrogen technologies must deal with safety aspects due to the specific substance properties. This study aims to provide an overview on the loss of integrity (LOI) of hydrogen equipment which may lead to serious consequences such as fires and explosions. Substantial information regarding the hydrogen lifecycle its properties and safety related aspects has gathered. Furthermore focus has placed on the phenomena responsible for the LOI (e.g. hydrogen embrittlement) and material selection for hydrogen services. Moreover a systematic review on the hydrogen LOI topic has conducted to identify and connect the most relevant and active research group within the topic. In conclusion a significant dearth of knowledge in material behaviour of hydrogen technologies has highlighted. It is thought that is possible to bridge this gap by strengthening the collaborations between scientists from different research fields.
Crack Size Dependency of Shear-mode Fatigue Threshold in Bearing Steel Subjected to Continuous Hydrogen Charging
Jun 2019
Publication
Premature delamination failure characterized by the white structure flaking (WSF) or the white etching crack (WEC) often occurs in rolling element bearings and it deteriorates the durability of bearing substantially. It is known that this failure is caused by shear-mode (Mode II and Mode III) crack growth in conjunction with evolution and invasion of hydrogen into material during operation. To ensure the structural integrity associated with rolling element bearing it is important to clarify the effect of hydrogen on the shear-mode fatigue crack growth behavior near the threshold level.<br/>In our previous study the effect of hydrogen on the shear-mode fatigue crack growth behavior in a bearing steel of JIS SUJ2 was examined near the threshold level. Consequently it was shown that the threshold stress intensity factor (SIF) range for shear-mode fatigue crack growth decreased significantly by action of hydrogen. However the investigation was made only for a crack with a surface length of about 900 mm. To thoroughly understand the critical condition for delamination failure it is important to investigate the crack size dependency of the threshold level for a shear-mode small fatigue crack in the presence of hydrogen. In the present study correspondingly the threshold SIF ranges for a shear-mode crack with different length were additionally measured in the same material by using a novel technique that enables continuous charging of hydrogen in a specimen during long-term fatigue test. Then a clear reduction in crack growth rate and a crack size dependency of the threshold SIF range were observed under the environmental condition of continuous hydrogen charging.
Alternative Marine Fuels: Prospects Based on Multi-criteria Decision Analysis Involving Swedish Stakeholders
May 2019
Publication
There is a need for alternative marine fuels in order to reduce the environmental and climate impacts of shipping in the short and long term. This study assesses the prospects for seven alternative fuels for the shipping sector in 2030 including biofuels by applying a multi-criteria decision analysis approach that is based on the estimated fuel performance and on input from a panel of maritime stakeholders and by considering explicitly the influence of stakeholder preferences. Seven alternative marine fuels—liquefied natural gas (LNG) liquefied biogas (LBG) methanol from natural gas renewable methanol hydrogen for fuel cells produced from (i) natural gas or (ii) electrolysis based on renewable electricity and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)—and heavy fuel oil (HFO) as benchmark are included and ranked by ten performance criteria and their relative importance. The criteria cover economic environmental technical and social aspects. Stakeholder group preferences (i.e. the relative importance groups assign to the criteria) influence the ranking of these options. For ship-owners fuel producers and engine manufacturers economic criteria in particular the fuel price are the most important. These groups rank LNG and HFO the highest followed by fossil methanol and then various biofuels (LBG renewable methanol and HVO). Meanwhile representatives from Swedish government authorities prioritize environmental criteria specifically GHG emissions and social criteria specifically the potential to meet regulations ranking renewable hydrogen the highest followed by renewable methanol and then HVO. Policy initiatives are needed to promote the introduction of renewable marine fuels.
Transitioning to Hydrogen
Jan 2020
Publication
The UK is investigating supplying hydrogen to homes and businesses instead of natural gas by “repurposing” the gas network. It presents a major engineering challenge which has never been done anywhere else in the world.
In a new report titled ‘Transitioning to hydrogen’ experts from a cross-professional engineering institution (PEI) working group including the IET have assessed the engineering risks and uncertainties and concluded there is no reason why repurposing the gas network to hydrogen cannot be achieved. But there are several engineering risks and uncertainties which need to be addressed.
In a new report titled ‘Transitioning to hydrogen’ experts from a cross-professional engineering institution (PEI) working group including the IET have assessed the engineering risks and uncertainties and concluded there is no reason why repurposing the gas network to hydrogen cannot be achieved. But there are several engineering risks and uncertainties which need to be addressed.
A Review of the CFD Modeling of Hydrogen Production in Catalytic Steam Reforming Reactors
Dec 2022
Publication
Global demand for alternative renewable energy sources is increasing due to the consumption of fossil fuels and the increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen (H2 ) from biomass gasification is a green energy segment among the alternative options as it is environmentally friendly renewable and sustainable. Accordingly researchers focus on conducting experiments and modeling the reforming reactions in conventional and membrane reactors. The construction of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models is an essential tool used by researchers to study the performance of reforming and membrane reactors for hydrogen production and the effect of operating parameters on the methane stream improving processes for reforming untreated biogas in a catalyst-fixed bed and membrane reactors. This review article aims to provide a good CFD model overview of recent progress in catalyzing hydrogen production through various reactors sustainable steam reforming systems and carbon dioxide utilization. This article discusses some of the issues challenges and conceivable arrangements to aid the efficient generation of hydrogen from steam reforming catalytic reactions and membrane reactors of bioproducts and fossil fuels.
Analysis of Samples Cleaning Methods Prior to Hydrogen Content Determination in Steel
May 2020
Publication
There are multiple references to sample cleaning methods prior to hydrogen content determination or hydrogen spectroscopy analysis but there is still no unified criteria; different authors use their own “know-how” to perform this task. The aim of this paper is to solve or at least clarify this issue. In this work the most commonly used sample cleaning methods are compared. Then five different methodologies are applied on certified hydrogen content calibration pins and on high strength steel concrete-prestressing strands and the three main situations regarding hydrogen content in the microstructural net (non-charged charged and charged and uncharged) are studied. It was concluded that the HCl solution C-3.5 cleaning method recommended by ASTM G1 introduces large amounts of hydrogen in the samples; but can be useful for eliminating superficial oxides if necessary. The rest of the methods had similar results; but the more complete ones that involve ultrasounds and last longer than 8 min are not appropriated when important diffusion may occur on the samples during their application. Simple methods that involve acetone or trichloroethylene and last around 1 min are preferable for almost all situations as these are faster easier and cheaper. As a final recommendation as trichloroethylene is toxic the simple acetone method is in general the most convenient one for regular hydrogen content analysis.
Power to Gas Linking Electricity and Gas in a Decarbonising World
Oct 2018
Publication
Since the COP 21 meeting in Paris in December 2015 there has been a growing realisation that with the long-term objective that the energy system should be approaching carbon-neutrality by 2050 continuing to burn significant quantities of fossil-derived natural gas will not be sustainable. If existing natural gas infrastructure is to avoid becoming stranded assets plans to decarbonise the gas system need to be developed as a matter of urgency in the next three to five years given the typical life expectancy of such assets of 20 years or more. One of the options to decarbonise gas is “power-to-gas”: production of hydrogen or renewable methane via electrolysis using surplus renewable electricity. This Energy Insight reviews the status of power-to-gas and makes an assessment of potential future development pathways and the role which it could play in decarbonising the energy system.
Link to document on the OIES website
Link to document on the OIES website
Homogeneous Hydrogen Deflagrations in Small Scale Enclosure. Experimental Results
Sep 2017
Publication
University of Pisa performed experimental tests in a 1m3 facility which shape and dimensions resemble a gas cabinet for the HySEA project founded by the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking with the aim to conduct pre-normative research on vented deflagrations in real-life enclosures and containers used for hydrogen energy applications in order to generate experimental data of high quality. The test facility named Small Scale Enclosure (SSE) had a vent area of 042m2 which location could be varied namely on the top or in front of the facility while different types of vent were investigated. Three different ignition location were investigated as well and the range of Hydrogen concentration ranged between 10 and 18% vol. This paper is aimed to summarize the main characteristics of the experimental campaign as well as to present its results.
A Fully Renewable and Efficient Backup Power System with a Hydrogen-biodiesel-fueled IC Engine
Jan 2019
Publication
Renewable energy is free abundant clean and could contribute towards a significant reduction of the global warming emissions. It is massively introduced as a source of electricity production across the globe and is expected to become the primary source of energy within the following decades. However despite the naturally replenished energy the supply is not always available. For this reason it is necessary at times of excess energy any surplus quantity to be sufficiently captured stored and later used when a deficit occurs. In this paper an overview of a backup power system operating with a hydrogen-biodiesel dual-fuel internal combustion engine is provided. The system is utilizing the organic chemical hydride method for safe hydrogen storage and transportation. The high energy content of hydrogen stored in the form of an organic hydride under ambient conditions makes it an ideal energy backup medium for large-scale and long-term applications. The research work focusses on the operation and emissions output of the dual-fuel internal combustion engine running on fully renewable fuels and the results are compared with the conventional petroleum-derived diesel engine. Biodiesel-hydrogen operation shows significant benefits in the reduction of carbon and soot emissions but deteriorates the NOx formation compared to the conventional diesel-powered engines. The operation of the engine at high loads can provide high exhaust thermal energy while alternative combustion strategies are necessary to be implemented at low load conditions for the optimum operation of the backup power system.
Fuel Cells and Hydrogen: Joint Undertaking Programme Review 2012 Final Report
Mar 2013
Publication
Initiated in 2011 the 2012 programme review edition covered 71‘live’ projects from the 2008 2009 and 2010 calls for proposals together with some projects from the 2011 call. Total funding for these projects stands at close to € 450 million 50% of which comes from FCH JU financial contributions and 50% of which comes from industry and research in-kind contributions.
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