Hydrogen End Uses

What this topic covers

Industrial feedstock, transportation, stationary power and energy-storage applications.

Core energy-system ideas

Hydrogen is already widely used in industrial processes such as refining and chemical manufacture.

Fuel cells can convert hydrogen to electricity for vehicles, backup power and stationary systems.

Some proposed energy systems use hydrogen to absorb electricity during periods of high generation and return energy later.

Important tradeoffs

Fuel cells, electrolyzers, storage and delivery equipment should be separated when estimating material demand.

Material and performance evidence

Energy-system performance depends on catalysts plus membranes, transport, power electronics, thermal systems and duty cycle.

Lifecycle perspective

Hydrogen and pressurized equipment require professional engineering and operating controls.