Focus area 2: Hydrogen storage and distribution
The energy content per weight for hydrogen gas is higher than for any other fuel. However, the volumetric energy density is low, and storage and distribution of hydrogen is a major hurdle towards a widespread use.
By far the most used way to store and distribute hydrogen is as a compressed gas. This will likely even in the future be the most attractive option for most applications. Liquefaction of the gas is sometimes an alternative but involves larger losses and low temperature handling. However, these technologies are rather well established even if further technical improvements and cost reduction can be expected.
In PUSH we study liquid hydrogen carriers which will have a complementing role due to their ease of storage and distribution. Methanol and ammonia are known examples. Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC) are less explored and are the main focus of this activity. System studies investigating the viability of liquid hydrogen carriers for storage and distribution of hydrogen as part of an energy system involving both stationary and mobile use is also in focus.