HySource: Mitigating hydrogen uptake from different sources in gas pipelines for hydrogen transmission
Context
To allow safe use of the existing natural gas pipeline grid for hydrogen transport and storage, mitigation strategies can provide a clear asset to limit the hydrogen embrittlement effect. The HySource project focuses on the addition of gaseous inhibitors to the hydrogen gas to reduce hydrogen uptake in the pipeline steel. Fundamental research on the efficiency of different inhibitor types and concentrations is performed. Additionally, the combined impact of hydrogen-induced cracking due to cathodic protection and gaseous hydrogen is evaluated for an optimized and maximal conversion of the grid.
Research objectives
Objective 1: Identify a safe and efficient inhibition strategy (type of inhibitor, concentration) with respect to hydrogen uptake capacity.
Objective 2: Control electrochemical charging conditions to avoid damage by cathodic (over)protection when combined with gaseous hydrogen.
Objective 3: Mechanically validate the beneficial effect of gas phase inhibitors.
Objective 4. Perform techno-economic analysis regarding the use of gaseous inhibitors in the Belgian pipeline grid.
Project logo and funding logo
In this project, the Sustainable Materials Science group (UGent) collaborates with Soete Laboratory (UGent) and Fluxys. The work is funded by FOD economy Energy Transition Fund (ETF HySource).