36 Analytical Instrumentation RECENT ADVANCEMENTS IN HYDROGEN FUEL TECHNOLOGY
Introduction: Hydrogen stands fi rm as an enduring and iconic energy source, with a history intertwined with the evolution of power generation. For example, in 1807, before the fi rst gasoline-powered automobiles, François Isaac de Rivaz introduced hydrogen as a fuel for an experimental automobile in a reciprocating engine with electric ignition1. Since then, hydrogen has been commonly used as a fuel source, albeit in a limited capacity. While hydrogen’s historical signifi cance in energy innovation is undeniable, it is important to acknowledge the persistent apprehension surrounding its utilisation. This apprehension can be attributed, in part, to the infamous Hindenburg disaster of 1937, in which hydrogen’s fl ammability played a tragic role 2
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Figure 1: The fi ve primary types of hydrogen, distinguished by their manufacturing process. Grey and blue hydrogen use steam methane reforming (SMR), green hydrogen uses electrolysis, turquoise hydrogen uses methane pyrolysis, and brown hydrogen uses coal gasifi cation4
Despite a checkered history, hydrogen fuels are experiencing a resurgence driven by the urgency of the climate change crisis. Governments and industries are fervently investing in clean hydrogen fuels due to their lightweight, versatile, and high-energy nature3
. The versatility of hydrogen production methods has
led to the emergence of fi ve distinct ‘colours’ of hydrogen, each tailored to various applications as shown in Figure 1 4
. This
diversity of production methods and applications has catalysed substantial growth in the hydrogen industry in recent years. Advancements in production and storage techniques as well as the emergence of novel pathways have fueled rapid progress in hydrogen fuel technology over the past half-decade. This article discusses several noteworthy breakthroughs from this period, highlighting their specifi c contributions to various aspects of the hydrogen fuel sector.
AEM Electrolysers:
The advancement of electrolysis technology holds great promise in signifi cantly reducing the cost of producing green hydrogen, a crucial component in the transition to renewable energy and achieving net-zero emissions6
. Green hydrogen is generated
through electrolysis, a process that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using excess renewable energy. While this method is environmentally friendly, it has its challenges. Currently, there are several electrolysis methods in use, with alkaline electrolysers being a prominent choice. These electrolysers employ an aqueous electrolyte and a porous membrane, creating a reliable but relatively slow system that doesn’t readily adapt to different renewable energy sources7
. PIN OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2023
Figure 2: The structure of an Alchemr AEM cell5
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