Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Energies Propose a Special Issue

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Published Papers

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A5: Hydrogen Energy".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 7795

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Praveen Cheekatamarla

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor

Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Rd., Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA
Interests: miro-CHP; building energy; carbon intensity; fuel cells; low carbon fuels; renewable energy; hybrid power systems; grid resiliency; decarbonization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Hydrogen is becoming an increasingly critical element in achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The primary decarbonization pillars are energy efficiency, electrification with renewables, carbon capture and storage and green hydrogen. The deep penetration of intermittent renewables such as wind and solar energy requires high-energy-density chemical storage technologies such as hydrogen. World governments are realizing the significance of hydrogen for accomplishing net-zero emissions. Hydrogen as a primary energy source is in high demand, and its use is estimated to avoid the release of up to 60 Gt CO2 emissions by 2050. The hydrogen-enabled decarbonization of all three major economic sectors, viz., industry, buildings and transportation, is the focus of this Special Issue.

In this context, this Special Issue aims to focus on recent technology advancements in the key areas of production, storage, distribution and utilization. Economically producing, safely distributing and efficiently utilizing hydrogen are critical to realizing its potential in achieving global carbon reduction targets.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

Electrolyzer technologies such as PEM, alkaline and solid oxide, including the reversible SOCs;
Sorption-based hydrogen storage materials; traditional high pressure and cryogenic storage solutions; hydrogen embrittlement;
Hydrogen-enabling harsh environment materials;
Hydrogen leakage detection and suppression;
Hydrogen combustion engines and fuel cells for passenger, long-haul and heavy-duty transportation; hydrogen-based heating and cooking equipment in the building industry;
Hydrogen-fueled cogeneration and trigeneration technologies;
Integrated microgrid technologies involving hydrogen;
Techno economics of hydrogen technologies.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Praveen Cheekatamarla
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

hydrogen economy
low-carbon fuel
zero-carbon fuel
hydrogen production
hydrogen storage
hydrogen utilization
fuel cells
combustion
heating
electrolysis
solid oxide cells
PEM

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers

Research

Jump to: Other

15 pages, 1264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hydrogen Storage in Porous Rocks: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends

by Barbara Uliasz-Misiak, Jacek Misiak and Joanna Lewandowska-Śmierzchalska

Energies 2024, 17(4), 805; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17040805 - 07 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 845

Abstract

Currently, there is an increasing number of research studies on underground storage of hydrogen in porous rocks (aquifers and depleted hydrocarbon fields). An important aspect of this process is the efficiency of hydrogen storage, which is defined as the correct operation of a storage facility (the ability to inject and withdraw an appropriate quantity of gas) and the safety of storage, which is influenced by numerous factors, including geological factors. With an increasing number of publications, gathering knowledge and keeping track of scientific progress is becoming increasingly complex. In addition to the technical interdependence of the parameters analysed, there are also interrelationships between scientific publications addressing issues related to underground hydrogen storage in porous rocks. The aim of this paper is to analyse the literature on hydrogen storage efficiency in porous rocks and, on the basis of the analysis, to identify the most important research trends and issues relevant to their implementation. This article presents an analysis of publications indexed in the SCOPUS database. The analysis included publications that contained expressions related to the relevant search phrases in their title, abstract or keywords. The dynamics of changes in the interest of researchers on the problem of hydrogen storage in porous rocks and the distribution of studies by geographical location (countries) are presented. Based on an analysis of the number of citations, the most influential publications were identified. Using the VOSviewer version 1.6.19 software, clusters reflecting research sub-areas were identified based on co-occurrence analysis, such as geological and reservoir aspects, reservoir engineering aspects, hydrogeological aspects and petrophysical aspects. Bibliometric methods have great potential for performing quantitative confirmation of subjectively delineated research fields and/or examining unexplored areas. The literature on underground hydrogen storage in porous rocks has been growing rapidly since at least 2018, with researchers conducting their studies in four major research streams: geological and reservoir aspects, reservoir engineering aspects, hydrogeological aspects and petrophysical aspects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 868 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

A Surrogate Model of the Butler-Volmer Equation for the Prediction of Thermodynamic Losses of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Electrode

by Szymon Buchaniec, Marek Gnatowski, Hiroshi Hasegawa and Grzegorz Brus

Energies 2023, 16(15), 5651; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16155651 - 27 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 952

Abstract

Solid oxide fuel cells are becoming increasingly important in various applications, from households to large-scale power plants. However, these electrochemical energy conversion devices have complex behavior that is difficult to understand and optimize. A numerical simulation is a primary tool for analysis and optimization-design. One of the most significant challenges in this field is improving microscale transport phenomena and electrode reaction models. Two main categories of simulation are black-box and white-box models. The former requires large experimental datasets and lacks physical constraints, while the latter inherits the inaccuracy of typical electrochemical reaction models. Here we show a micro-scale artificial neural network-supported numerical simulation that allows for overcoming those issues. In our research, we substituted one equation in the system, an electrochemical model, with an artificial neural network prediction. The data-driven prediction is constrained and must satisfy all reminded balance equations in the system. The results show that the proposed model can simulate an anode-electrode’s thermodynamic losses with improved accuracy compared with the classical approach. The coefficient of determination

R^{2}

for the proposed model was equal to 0.8810 for 800 °C, 0.8720 for 900 °C, and 0.8436 for 1000 °C. The findings open a way for improving the accuracy and computational complexity of electrochemical models in solid oxide fuel cell simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

0 pages, 3058 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure and First Hydrogenation Properties of Ti₁₆V₆₀Cr_24−xFe_x + 4 wt.% Zr Alloy for x = 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24

by Francia Ravalison and Jacques Huot

Energies 2023, 16(14), 5360; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16145360 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 950

Abstract

In body-centered cubic (BCC) alloys of transition elements, elemental addition or substitution in the vanadium-based alloys can be beneficial for improving the hydrogen storage properties and for reducing the production cost. In this context, the current study focused on the effect of the substitution of Cr by Fe in Ti₁₆V₆₀Cr_24−xFe_x + 4 wt.% Zr alloys where x = 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24. The microstructure of each alloy was composed of a matrix having a chemical composition close to the nominal one and a Zr-rich region. From X-ray diffraction patterns, it was found that the matrix has a BCC structure, and the Zr-rich regions present the C14 Laves phase structure. The lattice parameter of BCC phases decreased linearly with x, in accordance with Vegard’s law. The measurement of the first hydrogenation at 298 K under 3 MPa of hydrogen revealed a decrease in the maximum hydrogen capacity: 3.8 wt.% for x = 0, 3.1 wt.% for x = 4 and around 2 wt.% for x = 8 to 24. The XRD patterns after hydrogenation showed a BCT phase for all alloys, with a C14 phase for x = 4, 8, 12 and with C14 and C15 for x = 16, 20 and 24. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 3289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silver-Nanoparticle-Decorated Fused Carbon Sphere Composite as a Catalyst for Hydrogen Generation

by Erik Biehler, Qui Quach and Tarek M. Abdel-Fattah

Energies 2023, 16(13), 5053; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16135053 - 29 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1115

Abstract

The dwindling supply of fossil fuels has resulted in a search for an efficient alternative energy source. Hydrogen gas offers an abundant, clean-burning supply of energy that can be readily produced over time via the water-splitting reaction of sodium borohydride (NaBH₄). This study explored the synthesis of a novel catalyst comprised of silver nanoparticles supported on fused carbon spheres (AgNP-FCS). This composite catalyst was then tested for its ability to optimize the hydrolysis reaction of NaBH₄. The fused carbon spheres (FCS) were synthesized via a sustainable source, namely a dextrose solution. The synthesized AgNP-FCS catalyst was characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The average diameter of silver nanoparticles on the catalyst was found to be 30 nm with 3.7% loading. This catalyst was tested under various reaction conditions, including temperatures, doses of NaBH₄, and solution pHs. The activation energy of the reaction as catalyzed by AgNP-FCS was determined to be 37.0 kJ mol⁻¹, which was competitive when compared to similar catalysts for this reaction. A study of the reusability of this catalyst suggests that the catalyst can be used multiple times consecutively with no loss in hydrogen generated. This material presents an opportunity for a sustainable catalyst to optimize the amount of hydrogen generated via the hydrolysis of NaBH₄. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4266 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Performance of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolysis Systems: Configuration, Stack Materials, Turndown and Efficiency

by Xiaohua Wang, Andrew G. Star and Rajesh K. Ahluwalia

Energies 2023, 16(13), 4964; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16134964 - 26 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2026

Abstract

A cell model is developed and validated to analyze the performance of polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) stacks and systems. It is used to characterize the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity on a TiO₂-supported IrO₂ catalyst and an unsupported IrO₂ powder catalyst. Electrochemical, stack, and system thermoneutral potentials are defined and determined for isothermal and non-isothermal stack operation. Conditions are determined under which the system thermoneutral potential or flammability of H₂ in the O₂ anode stream limits the stack turndown and operating temperature. Performance is analyzed of a complete PEMWE system with an electrolyzer stack containing an IrO₂/TiO₂ anode catalyst (2 mg/cm² Ir loading) and N117-like membrane mitigated for H₂ crossover, anode balance-of-plant (BOP) components, cathode BOP system with temperature swing adsorption for H₂ purification, and electrical BOP system with transformer and rectifier. At the rated power condition, defined as 2 A/cm² at 1.9 V, 80 °C, and 30 bar H₂ pressure, the stack/system efficiency is 65.3%/60.3% at beginning of life (BOL), decreasing to 59.3%/53.9% at end of life (EOL). The peak stack/system efficiency is 76.3%/70.2% at BOL, decreasing to 71.2%/65.6% at EOL. Improvements in catalyst activity and membrane are identified for a 50% increase in current to 3 A/cm² at 1.8 V. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research

21 pages, 2195 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Hydrogen and the Global Energy Transition—Path to Sustainability and Adoption across All Economic Sectors

by Praveen Cheekatamarla

Energies 2024, 17(4), 807; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17040807 - 08 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1128

Abstract

This perspective article delves into the critical role of hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier in the context of the ongoing global energy transition. Hydrogen, with its potential to decarbonize various sectors, has emerged as a key player in achieving decarbonization and energy sustainability goals. This article provides an overview of the current state of hydrogen technology, its production methods, and its applications across diverse industries. By exploring the challenges and opportunities associated with hydrogen integration, we aim to shed light on the pathways toward achieving a sustainable hydrogen economy. Additionally, the article underscores the need for collaborative efforts among policymakers, industries, and researchers to overcome existing hurdles and unlock the full potential of hydrogen in the transition to a low-carbon future. Through a balanced analysis of the present landscape and future prospects, this perspective article aims to contribute valuable insights to the discourse surrounding hydrogen’s role in the global energy transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element 1 for Sustainable Decarbonization and Net-Zero Economy: Progress in Generation, Storage, Distribution and End-Use Technologies)

► Show Figures