Special Focus: Advances in H2 Production

For the thermal CH₄ decomposition, a temperature of 1,300°C is required. ​Metals​ ​like ​Ni, iron, copper and cobalt​ are found to have demonstrate​d​ ​catalytic ​activity for CH₄ decomposition​ at lower temperatures, ​around​ 500°C–800°C.​ The reaction is carried out in nanostructures like nanotubes, nanofibers or graphene.​

Liquid H₂ liquefaction, storage and transfer solutions work best with modular designs because modularity allows them to work as stand-alone units, integrate into existing systems or form complete light-scale H₂ systems.

As the production of H₂ is mature and technologically manageable, production can be ramped up quickly to meet corresponding demand. With technologies and processes, prices always fall significantly as soon as production capacities increase.

LNG is primarily composed of methane (CH₄) and can be utilized as an alternative for diesel and gasoline in transportation and power generation. It is presently a widely used fuel in various industries and transportation sectors due to its high energy density, established infrastructure and lower cost compared to LH₂.

There is further scope for efficiencies and scale in input processes like water purification and renewable power generation. However, the bulk of cost optimization must come from the digital transformation of green H₂ manufacturing, transportation and usage to make green H₂ competitive against hydrocarbon-based fuels, and within the greater H₂ market.

The $369 B of renewable energy initiatives in the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are promoting the shift to green energy with several incentives. Along with public appeal, the availability and flexibility of the various tax credits are projected to spur interest in energy transition projects.

According to the International Energy Agency, more than one-quarter of carbon dioxide capture capacity under construction or in planning involves H₂ or ammonia production across a range of applications, including dedicated production, refineries, fertilizer, and iron and steel.

January's H₂Tech: Tech Spotlight includes a H₂-capable gas meter, ultra stainless steel for H₂ production, liquid H₂ bulk transport trailers, H₂-powered container ships and much more.

H-TEC SYSTEMS strengthened its senior management team through the appointment of a new CFO. Since the beginning of 2024, Markus Weber has taken over the position from Frank Zimmermann who left the company at his own request.

While digital twins may often be thought of as just a run-time optimization tool, a comprehensive digital twin established during conceptual design will also work and deliver value throughout all subsequent project stages.