Researchers from Washington State University and international collaborators have discovered that lignin-based jet fuel can store hydrogen in a stable liquid form.
The study unveils a method to bind volatile hydrogen chemically, simplifying storage and transport without pressurized tanks.
Working with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the University of New Haven, and Natural Resources Canada, the team has used chemical reactions to develop a mechanism for storing hydrogen within lignin-derived jet fuel. This fuel, made from plant-based lignin, offers a sustainable alternative, improving engine performance and reducing pollutants.
WSU scientists are now developing an AI-powered catalyst with the University of New Haven to enhance this process. This development promises economic viability and broader use of sustainable fuels. Yang, a lead researcher, envisions a future where this lignin-based technology integrates smoothly with existing infrastructure, boosting both efficiency and ecological benefits.
The study received backing from the US Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office. With continued research, lignin-based fuel could significantly impact sustainable aviation and hydrogen technologies, promoting cleaner energy solutions.
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