A Mini-Review on Underground Hydrogen Storage: Production to Field Studies

Abstract

Hydrogen has become increasingly popular as one of the alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Storing hydrogen in geological structures is a technology that shows great potential in storing large amounts of hydrogen efficiently. However, this technology is relatively new and requires a clear understanding. Therefore, a quick review of underground hydrogen storage is needed to understand its fundamental concepts. This review article presents important components relevant to underground hydrogen storage. First, some currently available hydrogen production methods are discussed followed by hydrogen storage methods. Both small-scale and large-scale hydrogen storage methods are presented. Next, some important factors (fluid properties, rock properties, solid−fluid interactions, and chemical interactions) influencing underground hydrogen storage are summarized. This is followed by presenting various interesting field studies for underground hydrogen storage. Lastly, some challenges and future outlooks pertinent to underground hydrogen storage are reviewed. This article will serve as a useful resource that provides a quick overview of underground hydrogen storage for both researchers and industrialists.

Comprehensive Review of Hydrogen Leakage in Relation to Fuel Cell Vehicles and Hydrogen Refueling Stations: Status, Challenges, and Future Prospects

“…Confined spaces typically refer to areas with limited space and poor ventilation, such as underground parking lots, tunnels, car interiors, and other enclosed or semienclosed areas. In such environments, hydrogen will accumulate at the top of the space because of buoyancy and form a large combustible area when the concentration reaches a certain range. , Confined spaces are typically characterized by limited entrances and exits and narrow areas and are generally not suitable for continuous work or extended stays . On the other hand, free spaces refer to environments that are open and well ventilated, such as hydrogen refueling stations, highways, or outdoor parking lots.…”

Hydrogen Storage in Deep Saline Aquifers: Non-Recoverable Cushion Gas after Storage

“…However, this may affect the purity of the withdrawn hydrogen. Kalam et al [58] also proposed nitrogen, argon, and helium as suitable cushion gases for hydrogen storage, pointing to nitrogen as the best choice due to its abundance. Zhao et al [46] indicate that the type of cushion gas plays a significant role in storage costs when considering hydrogen storage in saline aquifers.…”

Molecular Simulation of H2 Loss by Dissolution in Caprock Water-Saturated Nanopores under the Nanoconfinement Effect for Underground Hydrogen Storage

“…Hydrogen has attracted widespread attention in recent years as an important clean energy. Injecting hydrogen into underground depleted reservoirs has been regarded as an economic storage method as a result of its large storage capacity. − However, the sealing safety of the caprock for the storage site must be considered for underground hydrogen storage (UHS) . A caprock is an impermeable rock composed of nanopores saturated with water, which lies above the reservoirs to trap the stored gas.…”