Safety
Examining the Nature of Two-dimensional Transverse Waves in Marginal Hydrogen Detonations using Boundary Layer Loss Modeling with Detailed Chemistry
Sep 2023
Publication
Historically it has been a challenge to simulate the experimentally observed cellular structures and marginal behavior of multidimensional hydrogen-oxygen detonations in the presence of losses even with detailed chemistry models. Very recently a quasi-two-dimensional inviscid approach was pursued where losses due to viscous boundary layers were modeled by the inclusion of an equivalent mass divergence in the lateral direction using Fay’s source term formulation with Mirels’ compressible boundary layer solutions. The same approach was used for this study along with the inclusion of thermally perfect detailed chemistry in order to capture the correct ignition sensitivity of the gas to dynamic changes in the thermodynamic state behind the detonation front. In addition the strength of transverse waves and their impact on the detonation front was investigated. Here the detailed San Diego mechanism was applied and it has been found that the detonation cell sizes can be accurately predicted without the need to prescribe specific parameters for the combustion model. For marginal cases where the detonation waves approach their failure limit quasi-stable mode behavior was observed where the number of transverse waves monotonically decreased to a single strong wave over a long enough distance. The strong transverse waves were also found to be slightly weaker than the detonation front indicating that they are not overdriven in agreement with recent studies.
Recent Advances in Combustion Science Related to Hydrogen Safety
Dec 2024
Publication
Hydrogen is a key pillar in the global Net Zero strategy. Rapid scaling up of hydrogen production transport distribution and utilization is expected. This entails that hydrogen which is traditionally an industrial gas will come into proximity of populated urban areas and in some situations handled by the untrained public. To realize all their benefits hydrogen and its technologies must be safely developed and deployed. The specific properties of hydrogen involving wide flammability range low ignition energy and fast flame speed implies that any accidental release of hydrogen can be easily ignited. Comparing with conventional fuels combustion systems fueled by hydrogen are also more prone to flame instability and abnormal combustion. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review about combustion research related to hydrogen safety. It starts with a brief introduction which includes some overview about risk analysis codes and standards. The core content covers ignition fire explosions and deflagration to detonation transition (DDT). Considering that DDT leads to detonation and that detonation may also be induced directly under special circumstances the subject of detonation is also included for completeness. The review covers laboratory medium and large-scale experiments as well as theoretical analysis and numerical simulation results. While highlights are provided at the end of each section the paper closes with some concluding remarks highlighting the achievements and key knowledge gaps.
Engineering Models for Refueling Protocol Development: Validation and Recommendations
Sep 2023
Publication
Fouad Ammouri,
Nicola Benvenuti,
Elena Vyazmina,
Vincent Ren,
Guillaume Lodier,
Quentin Nouvelot,
Thomas Guewouo,
Dorine Crouslé,
Rony Tawk,
Nicholas Hart,
Steve Mathison,
Taichi Kuroki,
Spencer Quong,
Antonio Ruiz,
Alexander Grab,
Alexander Kvasnicka,
Benoit Poulet,
Christopher Kutz and
Martin Zerta
The PRHYDE project (PRotocol for heavy duty HYDrogEn refueling) funded by the Clean Hydrogen partnership aims at developing recommendations for heavy-duty refueling protocols used for future standardization activities for trucks and other heavy duty transport systems applying hydrogen technologies. Development of a protocol requires a validated approach. Due to the limited time and budget the experimental data cannot cover the whole possible ranges of protocol parameters such as initial vehicle pressure and temperature ambient and precooling temperatures pressure ramp refueling time hardware specifications etc. Hence a validated numerical tool is essential for a safe and efficient protocol development. For this purpose engineering tools are used. They give good results in a very reasonable computation time of several seconds or minutes. These tools provide the heat parameters estimation in the gas (volume average temperature) and 1D temperature distribution in the tank wall. The following models were used SOFIL (Air Liquide tool) HyFill (by ENGIE) and H2Fills (open access code by NREL). The comparison of modelling results and experimental data demonstrated a good capability of codes to predict the evolution of average gas temperature in function of time. Some recommendations on model validation for the future protocol development are given.
Re-enacting the Hydrogen Tank Explosion of a Fuel-cell Electric Vehicle: An Experimental Study
May 2023
Publication
With the world-wide decision to reduce carbon emissions through the Paris Agreement (2015) the demand for hydrogen-fuelled vehicles has been increasing. Although hydrogen is not a toxic gas it has a wide flammable range (4e75%) and can explode due to static electricity. Therefore studies on hydrogen safety are urgently required. In this study an explosion was induced by applying fire to the lower part of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Out of three compressed hydrogen storage tanks installed in the vehicle two did not have hydrogen fuel and one was filled with compressed gaseous hydrogen of 700 bar and forcedly deactivated its temperature-activated pressure relief device. The side-on overpressure transducers were installed by distance in main directions to measure the side-on overpressure generated by the vehicle explosion. A 10 m-long protective barrier was installed on which reflected overpressure displacement and acceleration were measured to examine the effect of attenuation of explosion damage in the event of an accident. The vehicle exploded approximately 11 min after ignition generating a blast wave fireballs and fragments. The results of the experiment showed that the protective barrier could almost completely block explosive pressure smoke and scattering generated during an explosion. Through Probit function analysis the probabilities of an accident occurring were derived based on peak overpressure peak impulse and scattering. The results of this study can be used to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for firefighters as the base data for setting the initial operation location and deriving the safe separation distance.
Study on the Inherent Safety of On-board Methanol Reforming Hydrogen Production Fuel Cell System
Sep 2023
Publication
Methanol as a liquid phase hydrogen storage carrier has broad prospects. Although the on-board methanol reforming hydrogen fuel cell system (MRFC) has long been proposed to replace the traditional hydrogen fuel cell vehicle the inherent safety of the system itself has rarely been studied. This paper adopted the improved method of Inherently Safer Process Piping (ISPP) to evaluate the pipeline inherent safety of MRFC. The process data such as temperature pressure viscosity and density were obtained by simulating the MRFC in ASPEN HYSYS. The Process Stream Characteristic Index (PSCI) and risk assessment of jet fire and vapor cloud explosion was carried out for the key streams with those simulated data. The results showed the risk ranks of different pipelines in the MRFC and the countermeasures were given according to different risk ranks. Through the in-depth study of the evaluation results this paper demonstrates the risk degree of the system in more detail and reduces the fuzziness of risk rating. By applying ISPP to the small integrated system of MRFC this paper realizes the leap of inherent safety assessment method in the object and provides a reference for the inherent safety assessment of relevant objects in the future.
LES of Turbulent Under-expanded Hydrogen Jet Flames
Sep 2023
Publication
In the frame of hydrogen-powered aircraft Airbus wants to understand all the H2 physics and explore every scenario in order to develop and manufacture safe products operated in a safe environment. Within the framework of a Large Eddy Simulation (LES) methodology for modeling turbulence a comparative numerical study of free under-expanded jet H2/AIR flame is conducted. The investigated geometry consists of straight nozzles with a millimetric diameter fed with pure H2 at upstream pressures ranging from 2 to 10 bar. Numerical results are compared with available experimental measurements such as; temperature signals using thermocouples. LES confirms its prediction capability in terms of shock jet structure and flame length. A particular attention is paid for capturing experimental unstable flame when upstream pressure decreases. Furthermore flame stabilization and flame anchoring are analyzed. Mechanisms of flame stabilization are highlighted for case 1 and stabilization criteria are tested. Finally an ignition map to reach flame stabilization is proposed for each case regarding the literature.
Expansion of Next-Generation Sustainable Clean Hydrogen Energy in South Korea: Domino Explosion Risk Analysis and Preventive Measures Due to Hydrogen Leakage from Hydrogen Re-Fueling Stations Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Apr 2024
Publication
Hydrogen an advanced energy source is growing quickly in its infrastructure and technological development. Urban areas are constructing convergence-type hydrogen refilling stations utilizing existing gas stations to ensure economic viability. However it is essential to conduct a risk analysis as hydrogen has a broad range for combustion and possesses significant explosive capabilities potentially leading to a domino explosion in the most severe circumstances. This study employed quantitative risk assessment to evaluate the range of damage effects of single and domino explosions. The PHAST program was utilized to generate quantitative data on the impacts of fires and explosions in the event of a single explosion with notable effects from explosions. Monte Carlo simulations were utilized to forecast a domino explosion aiming to predict uncertain events by reflecting the outcome of a single explosion. Monte Carlo simulations indicate a 69% chance of a domino explosion happening at a hydrogen refueling station if multi-layer safety devices fail resulting in damage estimated to be three times greater than a single explosion
Numerical Simulations of the Critical Diameter and Flame Stability for the Hydrogen Jet Flames
Sep 2023
Publication
This study focuses on development of a CFD model able to simulate the experimentally observed critical nozzle diameter for hydrogen non-premixed flames. The critical diameter represents the minimum nozzle size through which a free jet flame will remain stable at all driving pressures. Hydrogen non-premixed flames will not blow-out at diameters equal to or greater than the critical diameter. Accurate simulation of this parameter is important for assessment of thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) performance during hydrogen blowdown from a storage tank. At TPRD diameters below the critical value there is potential for a hydrogen jet flame to blow-out as the storage tank vents potentially leading to hydrogen accumulation in an indoor release scenario. Previous experimental studies have indicated that the critical diameter for hydrogen is approximately 1 mm. In this study flame stability is considered across a range of diameters and overpressures from 0.1 mm to 2 mm and from 0.2 MPa to 20 MPa respectively. The impact of turbulent Schmidt number Sct which is the ratio of momentum diffusivity (kinematic viscosity) and mass diffusivity on the hydrogen concentration profile in the region near the nozzle exit and subsequent influence on critical diameter was investigated and discussed. For lower Sct values the enhanced mass mixing resulted in smaller predicted critical diameters. The use of value Sct=0.61 in the model demonstrated the best agreement with experimental values of the critical diameter. The model reproduced the critical diameter of 1 mm and then was applied to predict flame stability for under-expanded hydrogen jets.
Overview of International Activities in Hydrogen System Safety in IEA Hydrogen TCP Task 43
Sep 2023
Publication
Safety and reliability have long been recognized as key issues for the development commercialization and implementation of new technologies and infrastructure and hydrogen systems are no exception to this rule. Reliability engineering quantitative risk assessment (QRA) and knowledge exchange each play a key role in proactive addressing safety – before problems happen – and help us learn from problems if they happen. Many international research activities are focusing on both reliability and risk assessment for hydrogen systems. However the element of knowledge exchange is sometimes less visible. To support international collaboration and knowledge exchange the International Energy Agency (IEA) convened a new Technology Collaboration Program “Task 43: Safety and Regulatory Aspects of Emerging Large Scale Hydrogen Energy Applications” started in June 2022. Within Task 43 Subtask E focuses on Hydrogen Systems Safety. This paper discusses the structure of the Hydrogen Systems Safety subtask and the aligned activities and introduces opportunities for future work.
Nuclear Enabled Hydrogen CO-generation: Safety and Regulatory Insight
Sep 2023
Publication
National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is aiming to demonstrate through a research and development programme that nuclear enabled hydrogen can be used to support future clean energy systems. Demonstrating the safe operation of hydrogen facilities co-generating with a nuclear reactor will be key to enabling the deployment and success of nuclear enabled hydrogen technologies in the future. During the deployment continuity of supply will be paramount and possibly requires inter-seasonal storage. Co-generation is a means of using a source of energy in this case a nuclear reactor to efficiently produce power and thermal energy. Since a great deal of the heat energy is lost to the environment in a power plant making use of wasted energy for other useful output like the production of hydrogen and direct heating would be advantageous to plant economics and energy system flexibility. The civil nuclear industry is regulated around the world. This approach ensures that all the activities related to the production of power from nuclear and the hazards associated with ionising radiation are controlled in a manner which protects workers members of the public property and the environment. Nuclear safety assessments follow a rigorous process and are required as part of the Nuclear Site Licence. A fundamental requirement which is cited in the UK legislation is that the risks associated with all activities at the licensed site be reduced to As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). The principle places a requirement on duty holders to implement measures to reduce risk where doing so is considered reasonable and proportionate. The inclusion of risks for hazardous materials associated with the hydrogen production facilities need to be considered and this requires harmonisation of two different safety and regulatory governance regimes which have not previously interacted in this way. The safety demonstration for nuclear facilities is provided through the Safety Case.
Methodology for Consequence-based Setback Distance Calculations for Bulk Liquid Hydrogen Storage Systems
Sep 2023
Publication
Updates to the separation distances between different exposures and bulk liquid hydrogen systems are included in the 2023 version of NFPA 2: Hydrogen Technologies Code. This work details the models and calculations leading to those distances. The specific models used including the flow of liquid hydrogen through an orifice within the Hydrogen Plus Other Alternative Fuels Risk Assessment Models (HyRAM+) toolkit are described and discussed to emphasize challenges specific to liquid hydrogen systems. Potential hazards and harm affecting individual exposures (e.g. ignition sources air intakes) for different unignited concentrations overpressures and heat flux levels were considered and exposures were grouped into three bins. For each group the distances to a specific hazard criteria (e.g. heat flux level) for a characteristic leak size informed by a risk-analysis led to a hazard distance. The maximum hazard distance within each group was selected to determine a table of separation distances based on internal pressure and pipe size rather than storage volume similar to the bulk gaseous separation distance tables in NFPA 2. The new separation distances are compared to the previous distances and some implications of the updated distances are given.
A New Dimensionless Number for Type IV Composite Pressure Vessel Designer to Increase Efficiency and Reduce Cost
Sep 2023
Publication
A new dimensionless number (DN) is proposed in order to evaluate the performance of a high-pressure vessel composite structure. It shows that very few composite part is used at its maximum loading potential during bursting. Today for 70 MPa on-board type IV composite tanks DN values close to 20%. The suggested DN will be a useful indicator for an industrial application. By maximizing the DN at the design phase it is possible to minimize the mass of the composite structure of a CPV to reduce the manufacturing time and cost. To increase the DN as close as possible to 100% it is necessary to succeed in increasing the overall loading of the composite structure to have better oriented fibre. For this it seems necessary to find new processes which make it possible to better orient the fibre.
Effect of Wall Friction on Shock-flame Interactions in a Hydrogen-air Mixture
Sep 2023
Publication
Shock-flame interactions (SFI) occur in a variety of combustion scenarios of scientific and engineering interest which can distort the flame extend the flame surface area and subsequently enhance heat release. This process is dominated by Richtmyer-Meshkov instability (RMI) that features the perturbation growth of a density-difference interface (flame) after the shock passage. The main mechanism of RMI is the vorticity deposition results from a misalignment between pressure and density gradients. This paper focuses on the multi-dimensional interactions between shock wave and flame in a hydrogen-air mixture. The simulations of this work were conducted by solving three-dimensional fully-compressible reactive Navier-Stokes equations using a high-order numerical method on a dynamically adapting mesh. The effect of wall friction on the SFI was examined by varying wall boundary condition (free-slip/no-slip) on sidewall. The results show that the global flame perturbation grows faster with the effect of wall friction in the no-slip case than that in the free-slip case in the process of SFI. Two effects of wall friction on SFI were found: (1) flame stretching close to the no-slip wall and (2) damping of local flame perturbation at the no-slip wall. The flame stretch effect leads to a significantly higher growth rate in the global flame perturbation. By contrast the damping effect locally moderates the flame perturbation induced by RMI in close proximity to the no-slip wall because less vorticity is deposited on this part of flame during SFI.
Analysis and Comparison of Hydrogen Generators Safety Measures According to International Regulations, Codes and Standards (RCS)
Sep 2023
Publication
Climate change has prompted the international community to invest heavily in renewable energy sources in order to gradually replace fossil fuels. Whilst energy systems will be increasingly based on non-programmable renewable sources hydrogen is the main player when it comes to the role of energy reserve. This change has triggered a fast development of hydrogen production technologies with increasing use and installation of hydrogen generators (electrolyzers) in both the civil and industrial sector. The implementation of such investments requires the need for accurate design and verification of hydrogen systems with particular attention on fire safety. Due to its chemical-physical characteristics hydrogen is highly flammable and is often stored at very high-pressure levels. ISO 22734 and NFPA 2 are the main international standards which are currently available for the design of hydrogen generators and systems both of which include fire safety requirements. This paper analyses the main existing Regulations Codes and Standards (RCS) for hydrogen generators with the purpose of evaluating and comparing fire safety measures with focus on both active protection (detection systems extinguishing systems) and passive protection (safety distances separation walls). The scope of the paper is to identify safety measures which can be considered generally applicable and provide a reference for further fire safety regulations. The analysis carried out identifies potential gaps in RCS and suggests areas for potential future research.
Simulation of DDT in Obstructed Channels: Wavy Channels vs. Fence-type Obstacles
Sep 2023
Publication
The capabilities of an OpenFOAM solver to reproduce the transition of stoichiometric H2-air mixtures to detonation in obstructed 2-D channels were tested. The process is challenging numerically as it involves the ignition of a flame kernel its subsequent propagation and acceleration interaction with obstacles formation of shock waves ahead and detonation onset (DO). Two different obstacle configurations were considered in 10-mm high × 1-m long channels: (i) wavy walls (WW) that mimic the behavior of fencetype obstacles but prevent abrupt area changes. In this case flame acceleration (FA) is strongly affected by shock-flame interactions and DO often results from the compression of the gas present between the accelerating flame front and a converging section of the channel. (ii) Fence-type (FT) obstacles. In this case FA is driven by the increase in flame surface area as a result of the interaction of the flame front with the unburned gas flow field ahead particularly downstream of obstacles; shock-flame interactions play a role at the later stages of FA and DO takes place upon reflection of precursor shocks from obstacles. The effect of initial pressure p0 = 25 50 and 100 kPa at constant blockage ratio (BR = 0.6) was investigated and compared for both configurations. Results show that for the same initial pressure (p0 = 50 kPa) the obstacle configurations could lead to different final propagation regimes: a quasi-detonation for WW and a choked-flame for FT due to the increased losses for the latter. At p0 = 25 kPa however while both configurations result in choked flames WW seem to exhibit larger velocity deficits than FT due to longer flame-precursor shock distances during quasi-steady propagation and to the increased presence of unburnt mixture downstream of the tip of the flame that homogeneously explodes providing additional support to the propagation of the flame.
Social Risk Approach for Assessing Public Safety of Large-scale Hydrogen Systems
Sep 2023
Publication
Social risk is a comprehensive concept that considers not only internal/external physical risks but also risks (which are multiple varied and diverse) associated with social activity. It should be considered from diverse perspectives and requires a comprehensive evaluation framework that takes into account the synergistic impact of each element on others rather than evaluating each risk individually. Social risk assessment is an approach that is not limited to internal system risk from an engineering perspective but also considers the stakeholders development stage and societal readiness and resilience to change. This study aimed to introduce a social risk approach to assess the public safety of large-scale hydrogen systems. Guidelines for comprehensive social risk assessment were developed to conduct appropriate risk assessments for advanced science and technology activities with high uncertainties to predict major impacts on society before an accident occurs and to take measures to mitigate the damage and to ensure good governance are in place to facilitate emergency response and recovery in addition to preventive measures. In a case study this approach was applied to a hydrogen refueling station in Japan and risk-based multidisciplinary approaches were introduced. These approaches can be an effective supporting tool for social implementation with respect to large-scale hydrogen systems such as liquefied hydrogen storage tanks. The guidelines for social risk assessment of large-scale hydrogen systems are under the International Energy Agency Technology Collaboration Program Hydrogen Safety Task 43. This study presents potential case studies of social risk assessment for large-scale hydrogen systems for future.
Storage and Transportation Technology Solutions Selection for Large-scale Hydrogen Energy Utilization Scenarios under the Trend of Carbon Neutralization
Apr 2021
Publication
This paper mainly introduces the main pain point of China's civil hydrogen energy supply chain - the problem of storage and transportation and analyzes the safety economy and scale effect and other issues of the existing hydrogen energy storage and transportation compares with other storage and transportation technology solutions and comprehensively screens out the storage and transportation technology solution mainly based on liquid hydrogen technology. The liquid hydrogen technology solution has significant advantages over the existing compressed hydrogen system in terms of safety economy and scale effect especially for future large-scale hydrogen energy application scenarios. In addition the future hydrogen energy storage and transportation system based on liquid hydrogen technology can help improve the overall utilization efficiency of country’s renewable energy promote the country's energy transition promote the electrification of the country's transportation sector and help achieve China's carbon emission reduction 2030/2060 target.
A Comprehensive Review on Liquid Hydrogen Transfer Operations and Safety Considerations for Mobile Applications
Dec 2024
Publication
The adoption of liquid hydrogen (LH2) as an energy carrier presents significant opportunities for distributing large quantities of hydrogen efficiently. However ensuring safety of LH2 transfer operations requires the evo lution of suitable technologies and regulatory framework. This study offers an extensive overview of technical considerations and safety aspects pertaining to liquid hydrogen installations and mobile applications. A signif icant lack of regulations specifically tailored for LH2 transfer operations is highlighted. Additionally experi mental findings and outcomes of the modelling activities carried out in previous research are presented shedding light on the combustion and ignition behaviour of liquid hydrogen during accident scenarios. The identification of research gaps and ongoing research projects underscores the importance of continued investigation and development of this critical area.
The Economical Repurposing Pipeliness to Hydrogen - Why Performance Testing of Representative Line Pipes is Key?
Sep 2023
Publication
The introduction of hydrogen in natural gas pipeline systems introduces integrity challenges due to the nature of interactions between hydrogen and line pipe steel materials. However not every natural gas pipeline is equal in regards to the challenges potentially posed by the repurposing to hydrogen. Existing codes and practices penalise high-grade materials on the basis of a perceived higher susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement in regards to their increased strength. This philosophy challenges the realisation of a hydrogen economy because it puts at economical and technical risk the conversion of almost half of the natural gas transmission systems in western countries.
The paper addresses the question whether pipe grade is actually a good proxy to strength and predictor to assess the performance of steel line pipes in hydrogen. Drivers that could affect the suitability of pipeline conversion in hydrogen from an integrity management perspective and industry experience of other hydrogen-charging applications are reviewed. In doing so the paper challenges the basis of the assumption that low-grade steels (up to X52 / L360) are automatically safer for hydrogen repurposing while at the other end of the spectrum higher-grade materials (>X52 / L360) are inevitably less suitable for hydrogen service.
Ultimately the paper discusses that materials sampling and testing of representative line pipes populations should be placed at the core of hydrogen repurposing strategies in order to safely address conversion and to maximize the hydrogen chain value. The paper addresses alternatives to make the sampling smart and cost-effective.
The paper addresses the question whether pipe grade is actually a good proxy to strength and predictor to assess the performance of steel line pipes in hydrogen. Drivers that could affect the suitability of pipeline conversion in hydrogen from an integrity management perspective and industry experience of other hydrogen-charging applications are reviewed. In doing so the paper challenges the basis of the assumption that low-grade steels (up to X52 / L360) are automatically safer for hydrogen repurposing while at the other end of the spectrum higher-grade materials (>X52 / L360) are inevitably less suitable for hydrogen service.
Ultimately the paper discusses that materials sampling and testing of representative line pipes populations should be placed at the core of hydrogen repurposing strategies in order to safely address conversion and to maximize the hydrogen chain value. The paper addresses alternatives to make the sampling smart and cost-effective.
Designing an Inherently Safe H2 Infrastructure: Combining Analytical, Experimental, and Numerical Investigations to Optimize H2 Refuelling Stations Safety by Passive Mitigation
Sep 2023
Publication
Natural ventilation is a well-known passive mitigation method to limit hydrogen build-up in confined spaces in case of accidental release [1-3]. In most cases a basic design of H2 infrastructure is adopted and vents installed for natural ventilation are adjusted according to safety targets and constraints of the considered structure. With the growing H2 mobility market the demand for H2 refueling infrastructure in our urban environment is on the rise. In order to meet both safety requirements and societal acceptance the design of such infrastructure is becoming more important. In this study a novel design concept is proposed for the hydrogen refueling station (HRS) by modifying physical structure while keeping safety consideration as the top priority of the concept. In this collaborative project between Air Liquide and the University of Delaware an extensive evaluation was performed on new structures of the processing container and dispenser of HRS by integrating safety protocols via passive means. Through a SWOT analysis combined with the most relevant approaches including analytical engineering models numerical simulations [4] and dedicated experimental trials an optimized design was obtained and its safety enhancement was fully evaluated. A small-scale processing container and an almost full-scale dispenser were built and tested to validate the design concepts by simulating accidental H2 release scenarios and assessing the associated consequences in terms of accumulation and potential flammable volumes formation. A conical dispenser and a V-shaped roof-top processing container which were easy to build and implement were designed and tested for this proof-of-concept study. This unique methodology from conception fundamental analysis investigation and validation through experimental design execution and evaluation is fully described in this study.
Safety Challenges Related to the Use of Hydrogen-Natural Gas Blends in Gas Turbines
Sep 2023
Publication
In a context of the decarbonization of the power sector the gas turbine manufacturers are expected tohandle and burn hydrogen or hydrogen/natural gas mixtures. This evolution is conceptually simple in order to displace CO2 emissions by H2O in the combustion exhaust but raises potential engineering andsafety related questions. Concerning the safety aspect the flammability domain is wider and the laminar flame speed is higher for hydrogen than for natural gas. As a result handling fuels with increased hydrogen concentration should a priori lead to an increased the risk of flammable cloud formation with air and also increase the potential explosion violence.<br/>A central topic for the gas turbine manufacturer is the quantification of the hydrogen fuel content from which the explosion risk increases significantly when compared with the use of natural gas. This work will be focused on a risk study of the fuel supply piping of a gas turbine in a scenario where mixing between fuel and air would occur. The pipes are a few dozens of meters long and show singularities: elbows connections with other lines … They are operated at high temperature and atmospheric or high pressure.<br/>The paper will first highlight through CFD modelling the impact of increasing hydrogen content in the fuel on the explosion risk based on a geometry representative of a realistic system. Second the quantification of the explosion effects will be addressed. Some elements of the bibliography relative to flame propagation in pipes will be recalled and put in sight of the characteristics of the industrial case. Finally a CFD model proposed recently for accounting for methane or hydrogen flames propagating in long open steel tubes was used to assess a hydrogen fuel content from which the flame can strongly accelerate and generate significative pressure effects for a flammable mixture initially at atmospheric conditions.
Review of the Status and Prospects of Fiber Optic Hydrogen Sensing Technology
Aug 2023
Publication
With the unprecedented development of green and renewable energy sources the proportion of clean hydrogen (H2 ) applications grows rapidly. Since H2 has physicochemical properties of being highly permeable and combustible high-performance H2 sensors to detect and monitor hydrogen concentration are essential. This review discusses a variety of fiber-optic-based H2 sensor technologies since the year 1984 including: interferometer technology fiber grating technology surface plasma resonance (SPR) technology micro lens technology evanescent field technology integrated optical waveguide technology direct transmission/reflection detection technology etc. These technologies have been evolving from simply pursuing high sensitivity and low detection limits (LDL) to focusing on multiple performance parameters to match various application demands such as: high temperature resistance fast response speed fast recovery speed large concentration range low cross sensitivity excellent long-term stability etc. On the basis of palladium (Pd)-sensitive material alloy metals catalysts or nanoparticles are proposed to improve the performance of fiberoptic-based H2 sensors including gold (Au) silver (Ag) platinum (Pt) zinc oxide (ZnO) titanium oxide (TiO2 ) tungsten oxide (WO3 ) Mg70Ti30 polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) graphene oxide (GO) etc. Various microstructure processes of the side and end of optical fiber H2 sensors are also discussed in this review.
CFD Simulation and ANN Prediction of Hydrogen Leakage and Diffusion Behavior in a Hydrogen Refuelling Station
Sep 2023
Publication
Hydrogen refuelling stations are an important part of the infrastructure for promoting the hydrogen economy. Since hydrogen is a flammable and explosive gas hydrogen released from high-pressure hydrogen storage equipment in hydrogen refuelling stations will likely cause combustion or explosion accidents. Studying high-pressure hydrogen leakage in hydrogen refuelling stations is a prerequisite for promoting hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen refuelling stations. In this work an actual-size hydrogen refuelling station model was established on the ANSYS FLUENT software platform. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models for hydrogen leakage simulation were validated by comparing the simulation results with experimental data in the literature. The effects of ambient wind speed wind direction leakage rate and leakage direction on the diffusion behaviors of the released hydrogen were investigated. The spreading distances of the flammable hydrogen cloud were predicted using an artificial neural network for horizontal leakage. The results show that the leak direction strongly affected the flammable cloud flow. The ambient wind speed has complicated effects on spreading the flammable cloud. The wind makes the flammable cloud move in certain directions and the higher wind speed accelerates the diffusion of the flammable gas in the air. The results of the study can be used as a reference for the study of high-pressure hydrogen leakage in hydrogen refuelling stations.
Fuel Cell Vehicle Hydrogen Emissions Testing
Sep 2023
Publication
The NREL Hydrogen Sensor Laboratory is comprised of researchers dedicated to furthering hydrogen sensor technology and detection methodology. NREL has teamed up with researchers at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Transport Canada (TC) to conduct research to quantify hydrogen emissions from Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV). Test protocols will have a large effect on monitoring and regulating the hydrogen emissions from FCEVs. How emissions are tested will play an important role when understanding the safety and environmental implications of using FCEVs. NREL Sensor Laboratory personnel have partnered with other entities to conduct multiple variations of emissions testing for FCEVs. This experimentation includes testing different models of FCEVs under various driving conditions while monitoring the hydrogen concentration of the exhaust using several different test methods and apparatus. Researchers look to support regulatory bodies by providing useful data that can support more consistent and relevant safety and environmental standards. We plan to present on the current test methods and results from recent emissions measurements at ECCC.
Energy Transition Technology Comes With New Process Safety Challenges and Risks
Jul 2023
Publication
This paper intends to give an impression of new technologies and processes that are in development for application to achieve decarbonization and about which less or no experience on associated hazards exists in the process industry. More or less an exception is hydrogen technology because its hazards are relatively known and there is industry experience in handling it safely but problems will arise when it is produced stored and distributed on a large scale. So when its use spreads to communities and it becomes as common as natural gas now measures to control the risks will be needed. And even with hydrogen surprise findings have been shown lately e.g. its BLEVE behavior when in a liquified form stored in a vessel heated externally. Substitutes for hydrogen are not without hazard concern either. The paper will further consider the hazards of energy storage in batteries and the problems to get those hazards under control. Relatively much attention will be paid to the electrification of the process industry. Many new processes are being researched which given green energy will be beneficial to reduce greenhouse gases and enhance sustainability but of which hazards are rather unknown. Therefore as last chapter the developments with respect to the concept of hazard identification and scenario definition will be considered in quite detail. Improvements in that respect are also being possible due to the digitization of the industry and the availability of data and considering the entire life cycle all facilitated by the data model standard ISO 15926 with the scope of integration of life-cycle data for process plants including oil and gas production facilities. Conclusion is that the new technologies and processes entail new process and personal hazards and that much effort is going into renewal but safety analyses are scarce. Right in a period of process renewal attention should be focused on possibilities to implement inherently safer design.
Enhancing Wind Energy Efficiency: A Study on the Power Output of Shrouded Wind Turbines for a Hydrogen Storage System
Mar 2025
Publication
This study presents a simulation and analysis of a shrouded wind turbine system integrated with a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer (PEME) for hydrogen production. The novel aspect of this research lies in the use of an aerodynamic blade shroud to enhance the wind turbine's performance particularly at low wind speeds. The addition of the aerodynamic shroud increases the power output by up to 68% at a wind speed of 2.5 m/s compared to a conventional wind turbine. Additionally the effect of radial clearance between the shroud and turbine blades is explored showing that a smaller clearance significantly improves power generation. The study also investigates the impact of blade shape (NACA 2408 and NACA 4418) on performance with results indicating a 53% increase in power output for the NACA 4418 design compared to the unshrouded turbine. The influence of the aerodynamic blade shroud on PEME energy density and hydrogen production efficiency is discussed demonstrating how increasing wind turbine power output leads to higher current density in the electrolyzer which while increasing hydrogen production slightly reduces thermal and exergy efficiencies. To counteract this the study suggests using multiple PEME stacks in parallel to enhance both efficiency and hydrogen output.
Inspection of Hydrogen Transport Equipment: A Data-driven Approach to Predict Fatigue Degradation
Jul 2024
Publication
Hydrogen is an environmentally friendly fuel that can facilitate the upcoming energy transition. The development of an extensive infrastructure for hydrogen transport and storage is crucial. However the mechanical properties of structural materials are significantly degraded in H2 environments leading to early component failures. Pipelines are designed following defect-tolerant principles and are subjected to periodic pressure fluctuations. Hence these systems are potentially prone to fatigue degradation often accelerated in pressurized hydrogen gas. Inspection and maintenance activities are crucial to guarantee the integrity and fitness for service of this infrastructure. This study predicts the severity of hydrogen-enhanced fatigue in low-alloy steels commonly employed for H2 transport and storage equipment. Three machine-learning algorithms i.e. Linear Model Deep Neural Network and Random Forest are used to categorize the severity of the fatigue degradation. The models are critically compared and the best-performing algorithm are trained to predict the Fatigue Acceleration Factor. This approach shows good prediction capability and can estimate the fatigue crack propagation in lowalloy steels. These results allow for estimating the probability of failure of hydrogen pipelines thus facilitating the inspection and maintenance planning.
Design of Long-Life Wireless Near-Field Hydrogen Gas Sensor
Feb 2024
Publication
A compact wireless near-field hydrogen gas sensor is proposed which detects leaking hydrogen near its source to achieve fast responses and high reliability. A semiconductor-type sensing element is implemented in the sensor which can provide a significant response in 100 ms when stimulated by pure hydrogen. The overall response time is shortened by orders of magnitude compared to conventional sensors according to simulation results which will be within 200 ms compared with over 25 s for spatial concentration sensors under the worst conditions. Over 1 year maintenance intervals are enabled by wireless design based on the Bluetooth low energy protocol. The average energy consumption during a single alarm process is 153 µJ/s. The whole sensor is integrated on a 20 × 26 mm circuit board for compact use.
Effect of Methane Addition on Transition to Detonation in Hydrogen-Air Mixtures Due to Shock Wave Focussing in a 90 - Degree Corner
Sep 2023
Publication
The main purpose of this work is to investigate the influence of methane addition in methane-hydrogen-air mixture (φ = 0.8 – 1.6) on the critical conditions for transition to detonation in a 90-deg wedge corner. Similar to hydrogen-air mixtures investigated previously [1] methane-hydrogen-air mixtures results showed three ignition modes weak ignition followed by deflagration with ignition delay time higher than 1 μs strong ignition with instantaneous transition to detonation and third with deflagrative ignition and delayed transition to detonation. Methane addition caused an increase in the range of 3.25 – 5.03% in the critical shock wave velocity necessary for transition to detonation for all mixtures considered. For example in stoichiometric mixture with 5% methane in fuel (95% hydrogen in fuel) in air the transition to detonation velocity was approx. 752 m/s (an increase of 37 m/s from hydrogen-air) corresponding to M = 1.89 (an increase of 0.14 from hydrogen-air) and 75.7% (an increase of 4.7% from hydrogen-air) of speed of sound in products. Also similar to hydrogen-air mixture the transition to detonation velocity increased for leaner and richer mixture. Moreover it was observed that methane addition in general increased the pressure limit at the corner necessary for transition to detonation.
Experiments and Simulations of Large Scale Hydrogen-Nitrogen-Air Gas Explosions for Nuclear and Hydrogen Safety Applications
Sep 2023
Publication
Hydrogen safety is a general concern because of the high reactivity compared to hydrocarbon-based fuels. The strength of knowledge in risk assessments related to the physical phenomena and the ability of models to predict the consequence of accidental releases is a key aspect for the safe implementation of new technologies. Nuclear safety considers the possibility of accidental leakages of hydrogen gas and subsequent explosion events in risk analysis. In many configurations the considered gaseous streams involve a large fraction of nitrogen gas mixed with hydrogen. This work presents the results of a large scale explosion experimental campaign for hydrogen-nitrogen-air mixtures. The experiments were performed in a 50 m3 vessel at Gexcon’s test site in Bergen Norway. The nitrogen fraction the equivalence ratio and the congestion level were investigated. The experiments are simulated in the FLACS-CFD software to inform about the current level of conservatism of the predictions for engineering application purposes. The study shows the reduced overpressure with nitrogen added to hydrogen mixtures and supports the use of FLACS-CFD-based risk analysis for hydrogen-nitrogen scenarios.
Towards Safer Hydrogen Refuelling Stations: Insights from Computational Fluid Dynamics LH2 Leakage
May 2024
Publication
The transition to a sustainable future with hydrogen as a key energy carrier necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the safety aspects of hydrogen including liquid hydrogen (LH₂). Hence this study presents a detailed computational fluid mechanics analysis to explore accidental LH₂ leakage and dispersion in a hydrogen refuelling station under varied conditions which is essential to prevent fire and explosion. The correlated impact of influential parameters including wind direction wind velocity leak direction and leak rate were analysed. The study shows that hydrogen dispersion is significantly impacted by the combined effect of wind direction and surrounding structures. Additionally the leak rate and leak direction have a significant effect on the development of the flammable cloud volume (FCV) which is critical for estimating the explosion hazards. Increasing wind velocity from 2 to 4 m/s at a constant leak rate of 0.06 kg/s results in an 82% reduction in FCV. The minimum FCV occurs when leak and wind directions oppose at 4 m/s. The most critical situation concerning FCV arises when the leak and wind directions are perpendicular with a leak rate of 0.06 kg/s and a wind velocity of 2 m/s. These findings can aid in the development of optimised sensing and monitoring systems and operational strategies to reduce the risk of catastrophic fire and explosion consequences.
Leakage Rates of Hydrogen-methane Gas Blends under Varying Pressure Conditions
Nov 2024
Publication
Integration of hydrogen into the existing natural gas infrastructure is considered a potential pathway that can accelerate the incorporation of hydrogen into the energy sector. While blending renewable hydrogen with natural gas offers advantages such as reduced carbon intensity and the ability to utilize existing infrastructure for hydrogen storage and transportation there are several concerns including leakage and associated issues. Un derstanding the behavior of hydrogen blended with natural gas in the existing infrastructure is crucial to ensure safe and efficient integration. In this study the leakage rates of mixtures of hydrogen and methane at different molar concentrations (5% 10% 20% and 50% hydrogen) through both precision machined orifices and com mon pipe fitting threads were investigated. The experiments showed that the leakage rates of these mixtures increased as the hydrogen content increased; however gas chromatography (GC) analysis showed that hydrogen did not leak preferentially at a greater rate than methane. The results indicate that mixing hydrogen with methane can increase the volume of gas leakage under the same pressure conditions. These findings suggest that mixing hydrogen with natural gas may result in increased volumetric flow rate of gas leaks but hydrogen alone does not leak preferentially to methane.
Preliminary Assessment of a Hydrogen Farm Including Health and Safety and Capacity Needs
Dec 2024
Publication
The safety engineering design of hydrogen systems and infrastructure worker education and training regulatory compliance and engagement with other stakeholders are significant to the viability and public acceptance of hydrogen farms. The only way to ensure these are accomplished is for the field of hydrogen safety engineering (HSE) to grow and mature. HSE is described as the application of engineering and scientific principles to protect the environment property and human life from the harmful effects of hydrogen-related mishaps and accidents. This paper describes a whole hydrogen farm that produces hydrogen from seawater by alkaline and proton exchange membrane electrolysers then details how the hydrogen gas will be used: some will be stored for use in a combined-cycle gas turbine some will be transferred to a liquefaction plant and the rest will be exported. Moreover this paper describes the design framework and overview for ensuring hydrogen safety through these processes (production transport storage and utilisation) which include legal requirements for hydrogen safety safety management systems and equipment for hydrogen safety. Hydrogen farms are large-scale facilities used to create store and distribute hydrogen which is usually produced by electrolysis using renewable energy sources like wind or solar power. Since hydrogen is a vital energy carrier for industries transportation and power generation these farms are crucial in assisting the global shift to clean energy. A versatile fuel with zero emissions at the point of use hydrogen is essential for reaching climate objectives and decarbonising industries that are difficult to electrify. Safety is essential in hydrogen farms because hydrogen is extremely flammable odourless invisible and also has a small molecular size meaning it is prone to leaks which if not handled appropriately might cause fires or explosions. To ensure the safe and dependable functioning of hydrogen production and storage systems stringent safety procedures are required to safeguard employees infrastructure and the surrounding environment from any mishaps.
Hydrogen Equipment Enclosure Risk Reduction through Earlier Detection of Component Failures
Sep 2023
Publication
Hydrogen component reliability and the hazard associated with failure rates is a critical area of research for the successful implementation and growth of hydrogen technology across the globe. The research team has partnered to quantify system risk reduction through earlier detection of hydrogen component failures. A model of hydrogen dispersion in a hydrogen equipment enclosure has been developed utilizing experimentally quantified hydrogen component leak rates as inputs. This model provides insight into the impact of hydrogen safety sensors and ventilation on the flammable mass within a hydrogen equipment enclosure. This model also demonstrates the change in safety sensor response time due to detector placement under various leak scenarios. The team looks to improve overall hydrogen system safety through an improved understanding of hydrogen component reliability and risk mitigation methods. This collaboration fits under the work program of IEA Hydrogen Task 43 Subtask E Hydrogen System Safety.
Numerical Modelling of Hydrogen Release and Dispersion
Jul 2021
Publication
Hydrogen is the most abundant element on earth being a low polluting and high efficiency fuel that can be used for various applications such as power generation heating or transportation. As a reaction to climate change authorities are working for determining the most promising applications for hydrogen one of the best examples of crossborder initiative being the IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest) on Hydrogen under development at EU level. Given the large interest for future uses of hydrogen special safety measures have to be implemented for avoiding potential accidents. If hydrogen is stored and used under pressure accidental leaks from pressure vessels may result in fires or explosions. Worldwide researchers are investigating possible accidents generated by hydrogen leaks. Special attention is granted to the atmospheric dispersion after the release so that to avoid fires or explosions. The use of consequence modelling software within safety and risk studies has shown its’ utility worldwide. In this paper there are modelled the consequences of the accidental release and atmospheric dispersion of hydrogen from a pressure tank using state-of-the-art QRA software. The simulation methodology used in this paper uses the “leak” model for carrying out discharge calculations. This model calculates the release rate and state of the gas after its expansion to atmospheric pressure. Accidental release of hydrogen is modelled by taking into account the process and meteorological conditions and the properties of the release point. Simulation results can be used further for land use planning or may be used for establishing proper protection measures for surrounding facilities. In this work we analysed two possible accident scenarios which may occur at an imaginary hydrogen refuelling station accidents caused by the leaks of the pressure vessel with diameters of 10 and 20 mm for a pressure tank filled with hydrogen at 35 MPa / 70 MPa. Process Hazard Analysis Software Tool 8.4 has been used for assessing the effects of the scenarios and for evaluating the hazardous extent around the analysed installation. Accident simulation results have shown that the leak size has an important effect on the flammable/explosive ranges. Also the jet fire’s influence distance is strongly influenced by the pressure and actual size of the accidental release.
Functional Resonance Analysis for Emerging Risks in Hydrogen Handling: An Analysis of an Experimental Test
Oct 2024
Publication
Hydrogen is on the rise as a substitute for fossil fuel in the energy sector. While this substitution does not happen dramatically the steady increase in hydrogen related research might be a good indicator of such desire. As it stands there are issues regarding its safe handling and use; consequently the health and safety subsectors observe the situation conspicuously. As we yet to know the behavior of hydrogen in critical situations uncertainties make these tasks prone to emerging risks. Thus hydrogen safety falls under emerging risk studies. Conventional perspective on safety especially regarding the flammable material focuses on calculating the hypothetical risks of failures in system. Resilience Engineering has another perspective as it focuses on normal operations offering new perspectives to tackle emerging risks from a new angle. Born from the heart of Resilience Engineering the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) captures sociotechnical systems’ essence in a tangible way. In this study FRAM has been used to model a series of experiments done on hydrogen management to analyze its jet fire. FRAM is used to test whether the method could be suitable to model a system in which emerging risks are present. It is the conclusion of this study that FRAM seems promising in raising risk awareness especially when available data is limited.
X-ray Absorpton Spectroscopy Study on Hydrogen Recombination Catalysts of Palladium Nanoparticles on Titanium Oxide under Wet Condition
Sep 2023
Publication
Hydrogen recombination catalyst is useful tool for reducing hydrogen in closed area. The catalyst is known to be poisoned under wet condition in long time use. The study is focused on the behavior of pre-oxidized Pd nanoparticle as the hard-used catalyst in high humidity environment by comparison of alumina and titanium oxide supports using in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy technique. The reduction of surface oxide layer of Pd/TiO2 was promoted by water during hydrogen recombination although the reduction reaction of Pd/Al2O3 was inhibited by water.
Techno-economic Analysis of Underground Hydrogen Storage in Europe
Dec 2023
Publication
Hydrogen storage is crucial to developing secure renewable energy systems to meet the European Union’s 2050 carbon neutrality objectives. However a knowledge gap exists concerning the site-specific performance and economic viability of utilizing underground gas storage (UGS) sites for hydrogen storage in Europe. We compile information on European UGS sites to assess potential hydrogen storage capacity and evaluate the associated current and future costs. The total hydrogen storage potential in Europe is 349 TWh of working gas energy (WGE) with site-specific capital costs ranging from $10 million to $1 billion. Porous media and salt caverns boasting a minimum storage capacity of 0.5 TWh WGE exhibit levelized costs of $1.5 and $0.8 per kilogram of hydrogen respectively. It is estimated that future levelized costs associated with hydrogen storage can potentially decrease to as low as $0.4 per kilogram after three experience cycles. Leveraging these techno-economic considerations we identify suitable storage sites.
IEA TCP Task 43 - Subtask Safety Distances: State of the Art
Sep 2023
Publication
The large deployment of hydrogen technologies for new applications such as heat power mobility and other emerging industrial utilizations is essential to meet targets for CO2 reduction. This will lead to an increase in the number of hydrogen installations nearby local populations that will handle hydrogen technologies. Local regulations differ and provide different safety and/or separation distances in different geographies. The purpose of this work is to give an insight on different methodologies and recommendations developed for hydrogen (mainly) risk management and consequences assessment of accidental scenarios. The first objective is to review available methodologies and to identify the divergent points on the methodology. For this purpose a survey has been launched to obtain the needed inputs from the subtask participants. The current work presents the outcomes of this survey highlighting the gaps and suggesting the prioritization of the actions to take to bridge these gaps.
Experimental Investigation of Hydrogen-Air Flame Propagation in Fire Extinguishing Foam
Sep 2023
Publication
An important element of modern firefighting is sometimes the use of foam. After the use of extinguishing foam on vehicles or machinery operated by compressed gases it is conceivable that masses of foam were enriched by escaping fuel gas. Furthermore new foam creation enriched with a high level of fuel gas from the deposed foam solution becomes theoretically possible. The aim of this study was to carry out basic experimental investigations on the combustion of water-based H2/air foam. Ignition tests were carried out in a transparent and vertically oriented cylindrical tube (d = 0.09 m; 1.5 m length) and a rectangular thin layer channel (0.02 m x 0.2 m; 2 m length). Additionally results from larger scale tests performed inside a pool (0.30 m x 1 m x 2 m) are presented. All ducts are semi-confined and a foam generator fills the ducts from below with the defined foam. The foams vary in type and concentration of the foaming agent and hydrogen concentration. The expansion ratio of the combustible foam is in the range of 20 to 50 and the investigated H2-concentrations vary from 8 to 70 % H2 in air. High-speed imaging is used to observe the combustion and determine flame velocities. The study shows that foam is flammable over a wide range of H2-concentrations from 9 to 65 % H2 in air. For certain H2/air-mixtures an abrupt flame acceleration is observed. The velocity of combustion increases rapidly by an order of magnitude and reaches velocities of up to 80 m/s.
Detailed Assessment of Dispersion for High-pressure H2 in Multi-fuel Environment
Sep 2023
Publication
The MultHyFuel project notably aims to produce the data missing for usable risk analysis and mitigation activity for Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) in a multi-fuel context. In this framework realistic releases of hydrogen that could occur in representative multi-fuel forecourts were studied. These releases can occur inside or outside fuel dispensers and they can interact with a complex environment notably made of parked cars and trucks. This paper is focused on the most critical scenarios that were addressed by a sub-group through the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling. Once the corresponding source terms for hydrogen releases were known two stages are followed:<br/>♦ Model Validation – to evaluate the CFD models selected by the task partners and to evaluate their performance through comparison to experimental data.<br/>♦ Realistic Release Modelling – to perform demonstration simulations of a range of critical scenarios.<br/>The CFD models selected for the Model Validation have been tested against measured data for a set of experiments involving hydrogen releases. Each experiment accounts for physical features that are encountered in the realistic cases. The selected experiments include an under-expanded hydrogen jet discharging into the open atmosphere with no obstacles or through an array of obstacles. Additionally a very different set-up was studied with buoyancy-driven releases inside a naturally ventilated enclosure. The results of the Model Validation exercise show that the models produce acceptable solutions when compared to measured data and give confidence in the ability of the models and the modellers to capture the behaviour of the realistic releases adequately. The Realistic Release Modelling phase will provide estimation of the flammable gas cloud volume for a set of critical scenarios and will be described at the second stage.
Pressure Evolution from Head-on Reflection of High-speed Deflagration in Hydrogen Mixtures
Sep 2023
Publication
Our previous reported experiments revealed that the reflection of high-speed deflagrations in hydrogenair and hydrogen-oxygen mixtures produces higher mechanical loading and reflected pressures than reflecting detonations. This surprising result was shown to correlate with the onset of detonation in the gases behind the reflected shock. We revisit these experiments with the aim of developing a closed-form model for the pressure evolution due to the shock-induced ignition and rapid transition to detonation. We find that the reflection condition of fast deflagrations corresponds to the chain-branching crossover regime of hydrogen ignition in which the reduced activation energy is very large and the reaction characteristic time is very short compared to the induction time. We formulate a closed-form model in the limit of fast reaction times as compared to the induction time which is used to predict a square wave pressure profile generated by self-similar propagation of internal Chapman-Jouguet detonation waves followed by Taylor expansion waves. The model predictions are compared with Navier-Stokes numerical simulations with full chemistry as well as simple Euler calculations using calibrated one-step or twostep chain-branching models. Both simplified numerical models were found to be in good agreement with the full chemistry model. We thus demonstrate that the end pressure evolution due to the reflection of high-speed deflagrations can be well predicted analytically and numerically using relatively simple models in this ignition regime of main interest for safety analysis and explosion mitigations. The slight departures from the square wave model are investigated based on the physical wave processes occurring in the shocked gases controlling the shock-to-detonation transition. Using the two-step model we study how the variations of the rate of energy release control the pressure evolution in the end gas extending the analysis of Sharpe to very large rates of energy release.
Field Test Series for Development of Mitigation Barriers and its Designs Against Hydrogen Explosion
Sep 2023
Publication
A field test series where a composite pressure vessel for hydrogen is exploded by fire 1) to provide the facts and the data for the safety distance based on overpressure; 2) to validate the current status of mitigation barrier per KGS FP216 and further designs for developments of the codes and standards relating to hydrogen refueling stations. A pair of barriers to be tested are installed approximately 4 m apart standing face to face. The explosion source is a type-4 composite vessel of 175 L filled with compressed hydrogen up to 70 MPa. The vessel is in the middle of the barriers and the body part is heated with an LPG burner until it blows out. The incident overpressures from the blast are measured with 40 high-speed pressure sensors which are respectively installed 2 to 32 m away from the explosion. In the tests with the barrier constructed per the current status of KGS FP216 the explosion of the vessel resulted in partial destruction of the reinforced concrete barrier and made the steel plate barrier dissociated from the foundation then flew away approximately 25 m. The peak overpressure was 14.65 kPa at 32 m. The test data will be further analyzed to select the barriers for the subsequent tests and to develop the codes and standards for hydrogen refueling stations.
Erosive Effects of Hydrogen Jet Fires on Tunnel Structural Materials
Sep 2023
Publication
This paper presents work undertaken as part of the Hytunnel-CS project a consortium investigating safety considerations for fuel cell hydrogen (FCH) vehicles in tunnels and similar confined spaces. This test programme investigated erosive effects of an ignited high pressure hydrogen jet impinging onto tunnel structural materials specifically concrete as used for tunnel linings and asphalt road surfacing for the road itself. The chosen test conditions mimicked a high-pressure release (700 bar) from an FCH car as a result of activation of the thermal pressure relief device (TPRD) on the fuel tank. These devices typically have a release opening of 2 mm and thus a nozzle diameter of approximately 2 mm was used. The resultant releases were ignited using a propane pilot light and test samples were placed in the jet path at varying standoff distances from the release nozzle.<br/>An initial characterization test of a free unimpeded ignited jet demonstrated a rapid and intense temperature increase up to 1650 °C lasting in the order of 3 - 5 minutes for that fuel inventory (4 kg hydrogen). Five tests were carried out where the ignited jet was impinged onto five structural samples. It was found that erosion occurred in the concrete samples where no fire mitigation namely addition of polypropylene fibres was applied. The road-surface sample was found to become molten but did not progress to combustion.<br/>Post-test material analysis including compressive strength and thermal conductivity measurements was carried out on some of the concrete samples to investigate whether structural deformities had occurred within the sample microstructure. The results suggested that the erosive damage caused by the hydrogen jet was mostly superficial and as such did not present an increased fire risk to the structural integrity to that of conventional hydrocarbon fires i.e. those that would result from petrol or diesel fuel tank releases. In terms of fire resistance standards it is suggested that current fire mitigation strategies and structural testing standards would be adequate for hydrogen vehicles on the road network.
A New Method to Quantify the Leakage Scenarios (Frequencies and Flowrates) on Hydrogen High Pressure Components
Sep 2023
Publication
This work is part of the MULTHYFUEL E.U. research program [1] aiming at enabling the implementation of hydrogen dispersers in refuelling stations. One important challenge is the severity of accidents due to a leakage of hydrogen from a dispenser in the forecourt. The work presented in this paper deals with the quantification of the leakage scenarios in terms of frequencies and severities. The risk analysis exercise although performed by experts showed very large discrepancies between the frequencies of leakages of the same categories and even between the consequences. A large part of the disagreement comes from the failure databases chosen as shown in the paper. The mismatch between the components on which the databases have been settled and the actual hydrogen components may be responsible for this situation. However as it stands limited confidence can be laid on the outcome of the risk analysis.<br/>A new method is being developed to calculate the frequencies of the leakage and the flowrate based on an accurate description of each component and of each hazardous situation. For instance the possibility for a fitting to become untight due to pressure cycling is modelled based on the contact mechanics. Human errors can also be introduced by describing the tasks. In addition of the description of the method the application to a disperser is proposed with some comparison to experiments. One of the outcomes is that leakage cross sections can be much larger than expected.
Comparative Study of LNG, Liquid Hydrogen ,and Liquid Ammonia Post-release Evaporation and Dispersion During Bunkering
Apr 2024
Publication
The use of alternative fuels is a primary means for decarbonising the maritime industry. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid ammonia (LNH3) are liquified gases among the alternative fuels. The safety risks associated with these fuels differ from traditional fuels. In addition to their low-temperature hazards the flammability of LNG and LH2 and the high toxicity of LNH3 present challenges in fuel handlings due to their high likelihood of fuel release during bunkering. This study aims at drawing extensive comparisons of the evaporation and vapour dispersion behaviours for the three fuels after release accidents during bunkering and discuss their safety issues. The study involved the release event of the three fuels on the main deck area of a reference bulk carrier with a deadweight of 208000 tonnes. Two release scenarios were considered: Scenario 1 involved a release of 0.3 m3 of fuel and Scenario 2 involved a release of 100 kg of fuel. An empirical equation was used to calculate the fuel evaporation process and the Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) code FDS was employed to simulate the dispersion of vapour clouds. The obtained results reveal that LH2 has the highest evaporation rate followed by LNG and LNH3. The vapour clouds of LNG and LNH3 spread along the main deck surface while the LH2 vapour cloud exhibits upward dispersion. The flammable vapour clouds of LNG and LH2 remain within the main deck area whereas the toxic gas cloud of LNH3 disperses towards the shore and spreads near the ground on the shore side. Based on the dispersion behaviours the hazards of LNG and LH2 are com parable while LNH3 poses significantly higher hazards. In terms of hazard mitigations effective water curtain systems can suppress the vapour dispersion.
Research on Characteristics of Hydrogen Dynamic Leakage and Combustion at High Pressure
Apr 2023
Publication
Hydrogen is promoted as an alternative energy given the global energy shortage and environmental pollution. A scientific basiscan be provided for the safe use and emergency treatment of hydrogen based on hydrogen leakage and combustion behavior.This study examined the stagnation parameters of dynamic hydrogen leakage and flame propagation in turbulent jets undernormal temperatures and high pressure. Based on van der Waals’ equation of state for gas a theoretical model for completelypredicting stagnation parameters outlet gas velocity and flow rate changes in the process of high-pressure hydrogen leakagecould be proposed and the calculation result of this model was compared with the experimental result with an error within±10%. The progression and propagation of the flame in turbulent jets after ignition were recorded using the background-oriented schlieren image technology and the propagation speed of flame from the ignition position downward and upwardwas calculated. Moreover the influence of initial pressure nozzle diameter and ignition position on the flame propagationprocess and propagation speed was analyzed.
Recent Developments in Sensor Technologies for Enabling the Hydrogen Economy
Dec 2023
Publication
Efforts to create a sustainable hydrogen economy are gaining momentum as governments all over the world are investing in hydrogen production storage distribution and delivery technologies to develop a hydrogen infrastructure. This involves transporting hydrogen in gaseous or liquid form or using carrier gases such as methane ammonia or mixtures of methane and hydrogen. Hydrogen is a colorless odorless gas and can easily leak into the atmosphere leading to economic loss and safety concerns. Therefore deployment of robust low-cost sensors for various scenarios involving hydrogen is of paramount importance. Here we review some recent developments in hydrogen sensors for applications such as leak detection safety process monitoring in production transport and use scenarios. The status of methane and ammonia sensors is covered due to their important role in hydrogen production and transportation using existing natural gas and ammonia infrastructure. This review further provides an overview of existing commercial hydrogen sensors and also addresses the potential for hydrogen as an interferent gas for currently used sensors. This review can help developers and users make informed decisions about how to drive hydrogen sensor technology forward and to incorporate hydrogen sensors into the various hydrogen deployment projects in the coming decade.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Hydrogen Releases in a Hydrogen Fueling Station with Liquid Hydrogen Storage
Feb 2025
Publication
Quantitative Risk Assessments (QRA) is an important tool for enabling safe deployment of hydrogen technologies and is increasingly embedded in the permitting process. Following the framework developed in our companion paper we conducted a detailed QRA on the uncontrolled releases from a high-capacity hydrogen fueling station with liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage. We characterized gaseous and liquid hydrogen releases determined the causal pathways that led to them and the frequency of the potential hazardous outcomes. These hazardous scenarios were modeled to estimate their potential harm on station users. The analysis results reveal that the total frequency for a major hydrogen release is 1.48 × 10− 2 times per station-year. However considering the control barriers in the station the expected frequency of ignition events is reduced to 1.35 × 10− 5 ignition per stationyear. The expected fatality risk is within the tolerable limit for hydrogen fueling stations but still remains higher than that of conventional gasoline stations. The most severe scenario identified involves a high-pressure GH2 release leading to a jet fire with jet flames reaching up to 15 m in length. The most probable sources of GH2 releases are from the gaseous hydrogen filters while for LH2 releases cryogenic pumps are the primary contributors. To improve the accuracy of QRAs for LH2 systems we identified critical gaps including the need for improved reliability data that must be addressed.
A Thermodynamically Consistent Methodology to Develop Predictive Simplified Kinetics for Detonation Simulations
Sep 2023
Publication
The number of species and elementary reactions needed for describing the oxidation of fuels increases with the size of the molecule and in turn the complexity of detailed mechanisms. Although the kinetics for conventional fuels (H2 CH4 C3H8...) are somewhat well-established chemical integration in detonation applications remains a major challenge. Significant efforts have been made to develop reduction techniques that aim to keep the predictive capabilities of detailed mechanisms intact while minimizing the number of species and reactions required. However as their starting point of development is based on homogeneous reactors or ZND profiles reduced mechanisms comprising a few species and reactions are not predictive. The methodology presented here relies on defining virtual chemical species such that the thermodynamic equilibrium of the ZND structure is properly recovered thereby circumventing the need to account for minor intermediate species. A classical asymptotic expression relating the ignition delay time with the reaction rate constant is then used to fit the Arrhenius coefficients targeting computations carried out with detailed kinetics. The methodology was extended to develop a three-step mechanism in which the Arrhenius coefficients were optimized to accurately reproduce the one-dimensional laminar ZND structure and the D−κ curves for slightly-curved quasi-steady detonation waves. Two-dimensional simulations performed with the three-step mechanism successfully reproduce the spectrum of length scales present in soot foils computed with detailed kinetics (i.e. cell regularity and size). Results attest for the robustness of the proposed methodology/approximation and its flexibility to be adapted to different configurations.
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