In the search for a safe and economical way to store hydrogen, scientists worldwide have made a breakthrough. An Australian research team from Deakin University has successfully stored hydrogen in powder form, which could lead to safer storage and transportation of the gas. The hydrogen is not solidified but bound to boron nitride, using the latest findings in mechanochemistry. The powder is ideal for absorbing gases due to its small size and relatively large surface area. The researchers initially developed the process as an alternative to the energy-intensive cryotechnology used in oil processing. However, it has proven to be an ideal method for safe hydrogen storage and could be a significant step forward for the global energy transition.
The hydrogen is not stored as a liquid or pure gas but is instead led into a ball mill filled with boron nitride. The material moves in a cylinder filled with steel balls, which crush various materials. The rotation of the cylinder encloses the hydrogen in the boron nitride, making the process relatively simple and cost-effective. The researchers have shown that the hydrogen is bound to the powder during the milling process and is thermally released without any special conditions. While the discovery is still in its early stages, it could have far-reaching implications for the future of energy supply, allowing for safe storage and easy transportation of hydrogen.
The researchers acknowledge that there is still a long way to go before the findings can be used to develop a tank that can control and release hydrogen safely and efficiently. However, this new method of hydrogen storage could be a game-changer, revolutionizing the way we store and transport energy. As the world continues to search for alternative fuel sources, this breakthrough could be a significant step forward in the global energy transition.
