Author: Arnes Biogradlija

Hydrogen as a fuel has long been seen as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels, addressing both energy and environmental pollution issues. However, harnessing hydrogen effectively requires innovative techniques, one of which is hydrogen liquefaction. Hydrogen liquefaction is a process that involves cooling hydrogen to cryogenic temperatures, making it easier to store and transport. This research dives deep into the thermodynamic analysis of various hydrogen liquefaction cycles, focusing on energy and exergy studies to optimize efficiency. Pre-cooling and Cyro-cooling Cycles In this study, three distinct liquefaction cycles were evaluated—each employing different pre-cooling and cryo-cooling methods. The simulations and analyses…

Naturgy and the Canary Islands Technological Institute (ITC), a public research center, are testing a new technology for green hydrogen production. The aim is to trial a 2 kW electrolyzer prototype to evaluate its design and compare its performance with current commercial systems. This project aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs by using fewer scarce materials like noble metals, and develop a technology that can quickly adapt to renewable energy sources. Anion Exchange Membrane Technology The technology, called Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM), is developed by Sungreen, a Singapore-based startup. Naturgy has been collaborating with Sungreen and ITC since September 2022.…

Alicante’s port is close to the massive Valencia port, one of the largest in Spain, handling 76.8 million tons of cargo last year compared to Alicante’s 3.1 million. Despite this proximity, Alicante is not just following in Valencia’s shadow. The port is devising strategies to carve out its own space in the Mediterranean. This involves opening new cargo lines with Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco, enhancing existing ones with the Canary Islands, attracting tech companies, and embracing sustainable practices, including installing a green hydrogen plant. Luis Rodriguez, president of the Alicante Port Authority, emphasizes that the goal is not to compete…

Kawasaki has taken a bold step in attempting to integrate hydrogen technology into motorcycles, developing motorcycle and scooter prototypes that run on hydrogen. Recent patent drawings showcase a hydrogen-powered motorcycle and a scooter, highlighting significant challenges. Unfortunately, these designs inadvertently showcase that current hydrogen technology may not be practical for such applications due to space constraints. Hydrogen’s Lower Energy Density The root issue with using hydrogen as a fuel lies in its lower energy density than traditional gasoline. Although one kilogram of hydrogen contains nearly three times the energy of one kilogram of gasoline, the volume required to store hydrogen…

 The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently announced a significant investment of $18 million to advance research in hydrogen detection systems. This funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting hydrogen technology, which is crucial for achieving clean energy goals. Improving Safety and Efficiency Hydrogen detection systems are vital for ensuring the safety and efficiency of hydrogen fuel use. These systems detect leaks, preventing potential hydrogen production, storage, and utilization hazards. The DOE aims to make hydrogen a more reliable and safe energy source by improving these detection systems. Encouraging Innovation and Collaboration The $18 million funding will be allocated to…

BORSIG ZM Compression GmbH has reached a significant milestone in hydrogen storage technology with the successful factory test run of the first three Bx36 series reciprocating compressors. These compressors are pivotal in RWE Gas Storage West GmbH’s hydrogen cavern storage project in Gronau-Epe, Germany. The project is expected to become the country’s first commercially operated underground hydrogen storage facility, marking a significant step in Germany’s energy transition. Advanced Compressors for Hydrogen Storage BORSIG ZM’s Bx36 compressors are designed to handle the high differential pressures required for hydrogen storage. Each compressor boasts a drive power of 2800 kW and a large…

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) has invested in the Japan Hydrogen Fund as a major limited partner (LP). Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management (SMDAM) will also provide fund management services. SMBC made this investment through the Social Value Creation Investment Fund, which is part of SMBC Group and supports customers in starting new businesses, developing new technologies, and boosting industries. Fund Management The Japan Hydrogen Fund will be managed by SMDAM, Advantage Partners (AP), and The Japan Hydrogen Association (JH2A). SMDAM will handle fund management and sustainable investment evaluations, AP will give investment advice and operational support, and JH2A will…

Hydrogen metallurgy technology is heralded as a groundbreaking pathway for achieving carbon neutrality in the iron and steel industry. However, the journey towards its widespread adoption has been fraught with economic and logistical challenges, particularly in China. Recent research published in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy explores these complexities. It provides a detailed forecast of the most reasonable times for steel enterprises to invest in hydrogen metallurgy projects. Economic Viability Post-2026 and 2048 The researchers established a predictive model that suggests hydrogen-rich blast furnace (hydrogen-rich BF) injection technology will become economically advantageous after 2026 for steel enterprises. This technology…

The research focuses on the crucial role of hydrogen technologies in decarbonizing heavy-duty transportation, specifically Class 8 trucks. As the world grapples with climate change, reductions in CO2 emissions are essential. Unfortunately, sectors such as trucking face unique challenges due to their high energy needs and the complexity of electrification. In light of this, the California Air Resources Board’s Advanced Clean Trucks rule mandates a shift towards zero-emission vehicles. Batteries, though viable for light vehicles, pose weight and charging challenges for heavy trucks. Hydrogen trucks emerge as a potential solution, capable of delivering diesel-like performance with minimal payload sacrifices. Cryo-Compressed…

Australia and Germany are joining forces to invest $660 million in hydrogen projects as part of a new energy partnership. This cooperation is seen as a major step towards expanding the use of clean energy technologies. Hydrogen, often referred to as the fuel of the future, has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Both countries aim to establish a more sustainable energy supply chain that will benefit their economies and contribute to global environmental goals. The investment will focus on developing hydrogen production methods, infrastructure, and applications. Australia has abundant natural resources that are ideal for producing hydrogen,…