Proposal and validation of a new innovative solution for green hydrogen storage, via clathrate hydrates.

Abstract

According to the European Green Deal, the production of green hydrogen is gaining the growing interest of scientists and industrialists. The European Strategy for Hydrogen denotes it as one of the main contributors to achieve the carbon neutrality of Europe within 2050. In this context, the whole chain of hydrogen must be defined with accuracy: from the raw energy needed for its production, to the following crucial phases, like storage and transportation. This article aims to propose an innovative solution to store hydrogen at competitive conditions. According to it, H2 molecules are enclathrated in solid crystalline water structures and form gas hydrates. Prior than this phase, it is mixed with carbon dioxide and/or small chain hydrocarbons, in order to lower the pressures required for the process. The final product will show high energy density, safety for humans (non-toxicity and lower flammability and explosivity, compared to the known techniques), easy of transportation. Moreover, it will assume a highly competitive energy stored/energy spent ratio. Finally, being the gas molecules only physically trapped into water cages, the following separation of hydrogen from the aid gases, also due to the different sizes between them, can be easily obtained at competitive costs.