The production of hydrogen withing HyUT can be separated into three categories: low temperature, high temperature, and natural H2 exploration. With low temperature we look at electrocatalysis, bubble dynamics, polymer membranes and thermochemical routes to get an optimized performance in the hydrogen system. High temperature production of hydrogen includes different types of ceramic electrolysers such as SOEC and PCEC, and the use of pyrolysis and solar thermochemical techniques. Natural hydrogen is still being explored as a valid and reliable source of revenue and we strive to use, among others, remote sensing technology to get a better understanding.
- Low Temperature
Low temperature hydrogen production can be divided into several subtopics such as electrodes and electrocatalysis, bubble dynamics, polymer membranes, electrode surfaces, and thermochemical routes such as aqueous reforming.
Bubble dynamics involves understanding and optimizing the formation and behavior of hydrogen gas bubbles during the electrolysis process. Efficient bubble dynamics can enhance the overall performance of the hydrogen production system.
Polymer membranes are used in electrolysis cells to separate the hydrogen and oxygen gases. They allow ions to pass through while preventing the mixing of gases, ensuring a pure and safe collection of hydrogen. Electrodes and electrocatalysts serve as the sites where reactions occur, playing a crucial role in electrocatalytic processes. They facilitate the transfer of electrons, enabling and driving the electrolysis process. At HyUT, we conduct both fundamental and applied research to comprehensively understand, optimize, and leverage material properties for enhanced functionality, such as activity, stability, and selectivityTopic Coordinator
- High Temperature
High temperature electrochemical routes for hydrogen production investigated at UT include oxygen ion conducting solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC), 600 - 900 C, and the slightly lower temperature proton conducting ceramic electrolysis cells (PCEC), 400 - 600 C. Synthesis of novel electrodes and electrolytes, e.g. via 3-D printing, fabrication and operando characterisation of lab-scale single cells, stack design and system testing are supported by multiscale multiphysics modelling. Digital twin development for online health monitoring, predictive maintenance and control is also in focus to extend device life under operation and accelerate the market profileration of SOEC and PCEC technology.
Thermochemical routes such as pyrolysis and solar thermochemical are also researched.
Topic Coordinator
- Natural H2 Exploration
So far, exploring natural hydrogen from Earth’s interior has been hindered by the limited capability of finding economic reserves. This is mainly due to the limited knowledge of the generation, transfer and possible extraction mechanisms of hydrogen from Earth. Therefore, we still do not have the proper knowledge and tools to locate and find economic hydrogen reserves. As a world-leading institute in Earth observations, we aim to use our expertise to better map the prospectivity of natural hydrogen resources on regional and global scales. We strive to use remote sensing, geophysics and geochemistry to better:
- Understand the different mechanisms of how hydrogen is formed in the deep Earth and which mechanisms can lead to economic discoveries.
- Understand the possible site characteristics where hydrogen can be captured and preserved.
- Understand the site signature that can allow us to locate them on the global and regional scale using remote sensing and geophysical data.
Topic Coordinator
The HyUT members are involved in multiple projects regarding the production of hydrogen, some of which you can find here