Can a new way to store hydrogen unlock its potential?

Researchers are testing an innovative way to transport and store hydrogen so it can be used as a clean fuel

Spotted: Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water and heat as by-products. However, in its gas phase, the clean energy source cannot be easily stored and transported in large quantities. To address these issues, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), PSA Singapore (PSA), and Japan’s Chiyoda Corporation (Chiyoda) are working together on a new method for transporting and storing hydrogen.

The team is exploring how to carry and store hydrogen by turning it into a type of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) called methylcyclohexane (MCH), which can be kept at room temperature and pressure. When needed, the MCH can be converted back into gas to be used as a clean fuel for port transportation.

One major advantage of the technology is that the MCH behaves similarly to gasoline, meaning that existing infrastructure can be utilised. The researchers’ innovative approach could now position hydrogen as a leading contender for sustainable green energy and contribute to the expansion of global hydrogen supply chains.

As part of this project, PSA has established the first hydrogen refuelling station and introduced a new hydrogen-powered vehicle at Singapore’s Pasir Panjang Terminal. With NTU successfully completing laboratory proof-of-concept experiments, a trial is now underway at the terminal. Scheduled to run until mid-2025, this trial aims to validate the storage and subsequent dehydrogenation of transported liquid hydrogen technology in an industrial setting.

Written By: Georgia King