Different Hydrogen Production Methods and the Associated Potential Anthropogenic Hydrogen Releases Along the Entire Hydrogen Value Chain
摘要
The present chapter is a review on the environmental impact of different anthropogenic hydrogen releases along the entire hydrogen value chain. Hydrogen is becoming one of the most demanding sources of energy as its utilization is emission-free. However, hydrogen handling during various stages of hydrogen value chain involves safety measures due to its unique properties (highly flammable) and potential hazards like harmful emissions post-combustion. The entire hydrogen value chain, starting from production and followed by storage, transportation and utilization involves two major types of emission sources, namely, stack and fugitive emissions. Stack emissions are the flue gases that are released during the production of hydrogen and fugitive emissions are unintentional hydrogen leaks during storage, transportation, and delivery. Several extreme measures have been taken to reduce stack emissions due to their high volumes. Technologies such as CO2 capture and storage (CCS), scrubbing and adsorption and membrane methods are commonly employed to mitigate CO2 emissions from industrial processes. Unlike stack, unintentional or fugitive emissions are unpredictable, usually originate from piping equipments and fittings, and are not restricted to a specific source-point. They generally appear as leaks from the containers carrying the process fluid such as through valves, pumps, and flanges. Basically, fugitive emissions are controlled through technical and management approaches in industrial settings. From hydrogen production standpoint, both stack and fugitive emissions needs careful consideration. In order to ensure sustainable and environmentally viable hydrogen production, future advancements and regulatory frameworks should aim to minimize both types of emissions.