A System-Level Analysis for Long-Distance Hydrogen Transport Using Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHCs): A Case Study in Australia–Korea

Abstract

The toluene (TOL)–methylcyclohexane (MCH) system is one of the viable solutions because of its high stability and high hydrogen storage capacity (6.2%). However, the high volatilities of TOL and MCH and the accumulative byproducts make it difficult to transport hydrogen. Considering these limitations, we developed a new strategy introducing an extraction column and pressure swing adsorption with heat integration to reduce the required energy utilities. Furthermore, a comprehensive system-level analysis was conducted through an application example of the transport of hydrogen from Australia to Korea. The minimum transport cost of hydrogen was determined to be $2.17/kg-H2 via techno-economic analysis. Sensitivity and uncertainty analyses revealed the influence of the economic and process parameters. Finally, a life cycle assessment was conducted to compare the environmental impact (EI) of each part. Although dehydrogenation is more energy-demanding than hydrogenation, hydrogenation has larger EIs for some factors including fossil resource scarcity (13% larger) and water consumption (746% larger), due to the toluene and hydrogen makeup. Furthermore, we compared changes in the EIs in the energy sources. This study can provide insights into the optimization and decision-making of hydrogen supply chains to revitalize the hydrogen economy.

Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Design of a Hydrogen Refueling Station Utilizing the Cold Energy of Liquid Hydrogen

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“…Hydrogen has emerged as a promising and environmentally friendly energy source. − Thus, hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role in the mobility sector. Technologies related to hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) are rapidly advancing .…”

Process Integration for the Production of Bioplastic Monomer: Techno-Economic Analysis and Life-Cycle Assessment

“…Techno-economic analysis (TEA) can be used to elucidate the economic feasibility and scalability of this technology. − Furthermore, it is important to assess the net environmental benefits of bioplastics, given that the production of bioplastics generates carbon emissions and consumes fossil energy. The use of fertilizers and pesticides, water consumption, and soil depletion during agricultural processes can negatively affect the environment. , A life-cycle assessment (LCA) is conducted to quantify the environmental impact throughout the production system life cycle . This assessment can help identify opportunities for improvement and highlight more sustainable options.…”