Whether for heating, producing electrical energy or driving cars – hydrogen is on the way becoming one of the future-orientated energy sources.
There are four categories of production with production processes differing greatly.
Gray hydrogen is obtained from natural gas, which is converted into hydrogen and carbon dioxide under heat. Electricity from fossil sources is used for production; the released CO2 enters the atmosphere unused. The oldest process for producing hydrogen is not climate-neutral and is very energy-intensive.
Blue hydrogen is similar in production to gray hydrogen, but the carbon monoxide is partially captured and stored underground using carbon capture storage (CCS). This method is almost climate-neutral and is considered one of the most economical for producing hydrogen.
Green hydrogen is produced from water through electrolysis using renewable energy. Production is completely CO2-neutral, which is why the most research in the world is carried out here.
Turquoise hydrogen is created by thermally splitting the methane contained in natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon. The process is CO2-neutral as long as the carbon is permanently bound and the heat supply for pyrolysis comes from renewable or CO2-neutral energy sources.
HETA has been researching and developing in the field of hydrogen filtration for many years. Many well-known, large partners from German industry rely on our knowledge and skills. Each of the types of production described is associated with dangers, which makes it essential to work with high quality and cleanliness.
Unexpected reactions often occur during hydrogen filtration. If the sudden increase in differential pressure is not considered, this quickly leads to blockages or even a system shutdown. Also sealing materials must be precisely adapted to the process, pressure and temperature.