As we have seen in previous articles, hydrogen is an element that can come from different sources. If we take advantage of renewable energies to generate it, we get green hydrogen, which is totally clean and sustainable.
Regardless of its origin, hydrogen presents some challenges when it comes to storing and transporting it. This is because hydrogen is the lightest and least dense element of all, so a small amount takes up a very large amount of space. It is therefore necessary to densify it, to compress it, so that its storage and transport is cost-effective and efficient. Once compressed, it allows us to store and transport it in specialized containers, such as tube trailers, for later use.
When compressing hydrogen, it must be taken into account that it has some characteristics different from other gases, such as, for example, that unlike other gases that heat up only when compressed, hydrogen also heats up when decompressed. In addition to the fact that it is a gas with a high explosive power and high flammability, it is necessary to take a series of precautions when compressing it. To solve this problem, Hiperbaric has developed a refrigeration system that effectively cools hydrogen in the compression process of its Plug & Play compressors.
“When compressing hydrogen, it must be taken into account that it has some characteristics different from other gases, such as, for example, that unlike other gases that heat up only when compressed, hydrogen also heats up when decompressed.” – Alejandro Blanco, Comercial Director
Hydrogen is a very interesting element as an energy carrier because it has the highest energy per mass unit of all fuels. Compared to gasoline, for example, hydrogen has a calorific value of 120 MJ/kg compared to 44.3 MJ/kg for gasoline. The problem it presents is its low density, approximately 13 times lower than air, and this is where its compression comes in.
“Compared to gasoline, for example, hydrogen has a calorific value of 120 MJ/kg compared to 44.3 MJ/kg for gasoline.” – Andrés Hernando, Hiperbaric’s CEO
Some of the challenges we face in compressing and storing hydrogen are:
- Materials used: the so-called hydrogen embrittlement, which occurs when hydrogen atoms diffuse into the materials used, making them prone to cracking.
- Leakage: in addition, being such a light material, hydrogen tends to escape through any small space. Its molecules are so small that they manage to slip through even many solid materials.
- Flammability: as we have said, hydrogen is an element with a high explosive power, so it is necessary to ensure that there are no leaks to guarantee safety.
Hydrogen compression is indispensable and necessary if we want to use it in vehicle refueling stations, the so-called hydrogenerators. If we aspire to its implementation in the field of mobility and the decarbonization of the industry, it is crucial to adopt advanced and safe technologies that guarantee its efficiency and sustainability.
If you would like to learn more about hydrogen compression, please do not hesitate to contact us.
