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Hydrogen
Special Issues
Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization
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Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization

A special issue of Hydrogen (ISSN 2673-4141).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2025 | Viewed by 24539

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Rajender Boddula

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
Interests: functional materials; heterogeneous catalysts; energy conversion and storage
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Lakshmana Reddy Nagappagari

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Surface and Interface Engineered Materials (SIEM), Department of Materials Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
Interests: nanocomposites; photoelectrochemical (PEC); hydrogen generation; single atom catalysts (SACs); MOFs; 2D nanomaterials; hydrogen evolution reaction (HER); oxygen evolution reaction (OER); photocatalysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Noora Al-Qahtani

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
Interests: corrosion; nanomaterials; recycling; composites; biodegradable materials; biomedical
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As the world endeavors to shift towards sustainable energy sources, hydrogen stands out as a pivotal and transformative player in this unfolding story. Recognized for its unparalleled potential, hydrogen is emerging as a cornerstone in the pursuit of a cleaner and more sustainable energy landscape. Its importance lies in its capacity to serve as a versatile energy carrier, capable of addressing a myriad of challenges associated with climate change, energy security and environmental sustainability. Hydrogen's significance extends beyond its role as a fuel; it embodies a sustainable solution with the power to revolutionize diverse sectors. As a zero-emission energy carrier, hydrogen not only offers a pathway to decarbonize industries traditionally reliant on fossil fuels but also serves as a key enabler for the integration of renewable energy sources into the global energy mix. The versatility of hydrogen is evident in its applications, ranging from powering fuel cells for transportation to serving as a feedstock for industrial processes. Hydrogen can be made in different ways, some of which are eco-friendly. This makes hydrogen very important for making a future with less carbon emissions. Moreover, its potential to store and release energy efficiently makes it a valuable asset in the pursuit of a resilient and decentralized energy infrastructure. By emphasizing hydrogen's importance in this narrative, we acknowledge its role as a catalyst for innovation, driving research and technological advancements. The integration of hydrogen into the energy transition signifies not only a commitment to environmental stewardship but also a strategic move towards building a more sustainable, reliable and inclusive energy paradigm for the future.

Relevant topics include the following:

  • Novel methods for sustainable hydrogen production.
  • Advances in water electrolysis, photoelectrochemical processes and biological hydrogen production.
  • Innovative storage solutions for hydrogen.
  • Efficient and safe methods for hydrogen transportation.
  • Hydrogen fuel cells for various applications.
  • Integration of hydrogen into existing energy systems.
  • Hydrogen as a key player in decarbonizing industries.
  • Advances in materials for hydrogen production, storage and utilization.
  • Technological developments enhancing the efficiency and durability of hydrogen-related systems.
  • Policy frameworks promoting hydrogen adoption.
  • Economic analyses and business models related to hydrogen technologies.

Researchers and scientists are invited to submit original research articles, review papers and case studies that contribute to the understanding and advancement of hydrogen-related technologies. All submitted papers will undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the highest quality and relevance.

Dr. Rajender Boddula
Dr. Lakshmana Reddy Nagappagari
Dr. Noora Al-Qahtani
Guest Editors

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. Hydrogen is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly 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 1000 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 production
  • storage
  • renewable energy
  • catalysts
  • fuel cells
  • net zero emissions
  • energy conversion
  • clean fuels

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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34 pages, 3961 KiB  
Article
Green Hydrogen and the Energy Transition: Hopes, Challenges, and Realistic Opportunities
by Alessandro Franco
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020028 - 19 Apr 2025
Viewed by 184
Abstract
This paper provides a system-level and dimensional analysis of green hydrogen, assessing its realistic deployment potential within broader energy transitions. While green hydrogen—produced via electrolysis using renewable electricity—is often promoted as a versatile decarbonization solution for industry, mobility, and civil applications, its practical [...] Read more.
This paper provides a system-level and dimensional analysis of green hydrogen, assessing its realistic deployment potential within broader energy transitions. While green hydrogen—produced via electrolysis using renewable electricity—is often promoted as a versatile decarbonization solution for industry, mobility, and civil applications, its practical implementation is constrained by high energy consumption, conversion inefficiencies, and complex supply chain requirements. This study highlights typical energy demands across key sectors and evaluates the scale of the renewable infrastructure needed to support them, offering quantitative insight into the feasibility of large-scale hydrogen integration. It also reflects current technological maturity, noting that many promising solutions remain far from industrial readiness. Finally, the paper underscores the importance of targeted policies and bankable investment models to foster the development of hydrogen ecosystems, emphasizing that its role should be framed within a selective, evidence-based strategy that focuses on high-impact applications. The analysis identifies key dimensional challenges, including the magnitude of renewable energy capacities required for sector-wide hydrogen integration and the scale of infrastructure investments needed to bridge current gaps. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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33 pages, 5847 KiB  
Article
A Techno-Economic Assessment of Steam Methane Reforming and Alkaline Water Electrolysis for Hydrogen Production
by Ching Cheng Chu, Muhammad Danial Suhainin, Dk Nur Hayati Amali Pg Haji Omar Ali, Jia Yuan Lim, Poh Serng Swee, Jerick Yap Raymundo, Ryan Xin Han Tan, Mei Kei Yap, Hsin Fei Khoo, Hazwani Suhaimi and Pg Emeroylariffion Abas
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020023 - 30 Mar 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
This study explores hydrogen’s potential as a sustainable energy source for Brunei, given the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and associated environmental concerns. Specifically, it evaluates two hydrogen production technologies; steam methane reforming (SMR) and alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), through a techno-economic framework [...] Read more.
This study explores hydrogen’s potential as a sustainable energy source for Brunei, given the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and associated environmental concerns. Specifically, it evaluates two hydrogen production technologies; steam methane reforming (SMR) and alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), through a techno-economic framework that assesses life cycle cost (LCC), efficiency, scalability, and environmental impact. SMR, the most widely used technique, is cost-effective but carbon-intensive, producing considerable carbon dioxide emissions unless combined with carbon capture to yield “blue hydrogen”. On the other hand, AWE, particularly when powered by renewable energy, offers a cleaner alternative despite challenges in efficiency and cost. The assessment revealed that AWE has a significantly higher LCC than SMR, making AWE the more economically viable hydrogen production method in the long term. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted to determine the main cost factors affecting the LCC, providing insights into the long term viability of each technology from an operational and financial standpoint. AWE’s economic viability is mostly driven by the high electricity and feedstock costs, while SMR relies heavily on feedstock costs. However, Environmental Impact Analysis (EIA) indicates that AWE produces significantly higher carbon dioxide emissions than SMR, which emits approximately 9100 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Nevertheless, findings suggest that AWE remains the more sustainable option due to its higher LCC costs and compatibility with renewable energy, especially in regions with access to low-cost renewable electricity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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11 pages, 3867 KiB  
Article
Influence of Nb Content on Structure and Functional Properties of Novel Multicomponent Nb–Ni–Ti–Zr–Co Alloy for Hydrogen Separation Membrane Application
by Egor B. Kashkarov, Leonid A. Svyatkin, Kirill S. Gusev, Sergey S. Ognev, Maksim Koptsev, Daria V. Terenteva, Tatyana L. Murashkina and Andrey M. Lider
Hydrogen 2024, 5(4), 929-939; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen5040049 - 21 Nov 2024
Viewed by 3486
Abstract
Novel multicomponent Nb–Ni–Ti–Zr–Co alloys with 20–55 at.% Nb were synthesized from metal powders by arc melting. The resulting alloys consist primarily of Nb-rich and eutectic body-centered (BCC) phases. The content of the eutectic BCC phase is highest for an equimolar composition, while the [...] Read more.
Novel multicomponent Nb–Ni–Ti–Zr–Co alloys with 20–55 at.% Nb were synthesized from metal powders by arc melting. The resulting alloys consist primarily of Nb-rich and eutectic body-centered (BCC) phases. The content of the eutectic BCC phase is highest for an equimolar composition, while the content of the Nb-rich BCC phase increases with Nb content in the alloy. The content of secondary phases is the highest for the alloy with 32 at.% Nb. According to ab initio calculations, hydrogen occupies tetrahedral interstitial sites in the Nb-rich phase and octahedral sites in the eutectic BCC phase. For different Nb concentrations, hydrogen-binding energies were calculated. An increase in the Nb-rich phase leads to softening of multicomponent alloys. The alloys with 20 and 32 at.% Nb demonstrate high hydrogen permeability (1.05 and 0.96 × 10−8 molH2m−1s−1Pa−0.5, respectively) at 400 °C, making them promising for hydrogen purification membrane application. Multicomponent alloys with a high Nb content (55 at.%) have low resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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32 pages, 6809 KiB  
Article
Integrating Deep Learning and Energy Management Standards for Enhanced Solar–Hydrogen Systems: A Study Using MobileNetV2, InceptionV3, and ISO 50001:2018
by Salaki Reynaldo Joshua, Yang Junghyun, Sanguk Park and Kihyeon Kwon
Hydrogen 2024, 5(4), 819-850; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen5040043 - 10 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3982
Abstract
This study addresses the growing need for effective energy management solutions in university settings, with particular emphasis on solar–hydrogen systems. The study’s purpose is to explore the integration of deep learning models, specifically MobileNetV2 and InceptionV3, in enhancing fault detection capabilities in AIoT-based [...] Read more.
This study addresses the growing need for effective energy management solutions in university settings, with particular emphasis on solar–hydrogen systems. The study’s purpose is to explore the integration of deep learning models, specifically MobileNetV2 and InceptionV3, in enhancing fault detection capabilities in AIoT-based environments, while also customizing ISO 50001:2018 standards to align with the unique energy management needs of academic institutions. Our research employs comparative analysis of the two deep learning models in terms of their performance in detecting solar panel defects and assessing accuracy, loss values, and computational efficiency. The findings reveal that MobileNetV2 achieves 80% accuracy, making it suitable for resource-constrained environments, while InceptionV3 demonstrates superior accuracy of 90% but requires more computational resources. The study concludes that both models offer distinct advantages based on application scenarios, emphasizing the importance of balancing accuracy and efficiency when selecting appropriate models for solar–hydrogen system management. This research highlights the critical role of continuous improvement and leadership commitment in the successful implementation of energy management standards in universities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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19 pages, 2817 KiB  
Article
Hydrogen Gas Compression for Efficient Storage: Balancing Energy and Increasing Density
by Alessandro Franco and Caterina Giovannini
Hydrogen 2024, 5(2), 293-311; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen5020017 - 25 May 2024
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 8561
Abstract
This article analyzes the processes of compressing hydrogen in the gaseous state, an aspect considered important due to its contribution to the greater diffusion of hydrogen in both the civil and industrial sectors. This article begins by providing a concise overview and comparison [...] Read more.
This article analyzes the processes of compressing hydrogen in the gaseous state, an aspect considered important due to its contribution to the greater diffusion of hydrogen in both the civil and industrial sectors. This article begins by providing a concise overview and comparison of diverse hydrogen-storage methodologies, laying the groundwork with an in-depth analysis of hydrogen’s thermophysical properties. It scrutinizes plausible configurations for hydrogen compression, aiming to strike a delicate balance between energy consumption, derived from the fuel itself, and the requisite number of compression stages. Notably, to render hydrogen storage competitive in terms of volume, pressures of at least 350 bar are deemed essential, albeit at an energy cost amounting to approximately 10% of the fuel’s calorific value. Multi-stage compression emerges as a crucial strategy, not solely for energy efficiency, but also to curtail temperature rises, with an upper limit set at 200 °C. This nuanced approach is underlined by the exploration of compression levels commonly cited in the literature, particularly 350 bar and 700 bar. The study advocates for a three-stage compression system as a pragmatic compromise, capable of achieving high-pressure solutions while keeping compression work below 10 MJ/kg, a threshold indicative of sustainable energy utilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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Review

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39 pages, 5222 KiB  
Review
Green Hydrogen: Pathway to Net Zero Green House Gas Emission and Global Climate Change Mitigation
by Ife Elegbeleye, Olusegun Oguntona and Femi Elegbeleye
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020029 - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Green hydrogen is gaining recognition as a viable substitute for fossil fuels, presenting a sustainable solution for global decarbonization. While significant progress has been made in hydrogen production, storage, and utilization, there remains a crucial need to assess its economic viability and integration [...] Read more.
Green hydrogen is gaining recognition as a viable substitute for fossil fuels, presenting a sustainable solution for global decarbonization. While significant progress has been made in hydrogen production, storage, and utilization, there remains a crucial need to assess its economic viability and integration into current energy systems and to reduce its emission footprint. This review delves into the prospects and challenges of green hydrogen deployment into the renewable energy mix, with a particular focus on cost reduction approaches, storage limitations, transportation, scalability, advancements in electrolysis, and diverse sectoral applications. By analyzing recent technological developments and policy frameworks, this review contributes a thorough evaluation of green hydrogen’s viability to achieve net-zero emissions. Furthermore, this review enhances understanding of the role of green hydrogen in climate change mitigation by identifying major scalability barriers and proffering actionable solutions, assessing life cycle emission reductions, and examining key policy measures required for large-scale adoption. Our analysis emphasizes the importance of advancing green hydrogen storage solutions, increasing the efficiency of electrolysis processes, reducing costs, and implementing stronger policy measures to support large-scale adoption. Our findings and results demonstrate that green hydrogen has 66–95% potential of reducing global warming when integrated with other renewables. Its widespread adoption will drastically reduce anticipated climate mitigation costs of $10.0–15.7 trillion in the next decades, with progress in electrolysis technology, cost efficiency, and various industrial applications. Our recommendation for future studies emphasizes improved catalyst durability, material enhancements for electrolyzer, integration of green hydrogen into hybrid renewable energy networks, and establishment of globally coordinated policies to accelerate its deployment. By bridging the divide between technological advancements and practical implementation, this research provides valuable guidance for scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders striving for a sustainable energy transition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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50 pages, 6934 KiB  
Review
Advancing Hydrogen Gas Utilization in Industrial Boilers: Impacts on Critical Boiler Components, Mitigation Measures, and Future Perspectives
by Edem Honu, Shengmin Guo, Shafiqur Rahman, Congyuan Zeng and Patrick Mensah
Hydrogen 2024, 5(3), 574-623; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen5030032 - 1 Sep 2024
Viewed by 2487
Abstract
This review sets out to investigate the detrimental impacts of hydrogen gas (H2) on critical boiler components and provide appropriate state-of-the-art mitigation measures and future research directions to advance its use in industrial boiler operations. Specifically, the study focused on hydrogen [...] Read more.
This review sets out to investigate the detrimental impacts of hydrogen gas (H2) on critical boiler components and provide appropriate state-of-the-art mitigation measures and future research directions to advance its use in industrial boiler operations. Specifically, the study focused on hydrogen embrittlement (HE) and high-temperature hydrogen attack (HTHA) and their effects on boiler components. The study provided a fundamental understanding of the evolution of these damage mechanisms in materials and their potential impact on critical boiler components in different operational contexts. Subsequently, the review highlighted general and specific mitigation measures, hydrogen-compatible materials (such as single-crystal PWA 1480E, Inconel 625, and Hastelloy X), and hydrogen barrier coatings (such as TiAlN) for mitigating potential hydrogen-induced damages in critical boiler components. This study also identified strategic material selection approaches and advanced approaches based on computational modeling (such as phase-field modeling) and data-driven machine learning models that could be leveraged to mitigate potential equipment failures due to HE and HTHA under elevated H2 conditions. Finally, future research directions were outlined to facilitate future implementation of mitigation measures, material selection studies, and advanced approaches to promote the extensive and sustainable use of H2 in industrial boiler operations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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Other

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10 pages, 1147 KiB  
Perspective
The Extractive Industry’s Decarbonization Potential Using Electrification and Hydrogen Technologies
by Antonis Peppas, Chrysa Politi and Maria Taxiarchou
Hydrogen 2025, 6(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6020019 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
The challenge of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions will require a significant scaling up of the production of several raw materials that are critical for decarbonizing the global economy. In contrast, metal extraction processes utilize carbon as a reducing agent, which is oxidized [...] Read more.
The challenge of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions will require a significant scaling up of the production of several raw materials that are critical for decarbonizing the global economy. In contrast, metal extraction processes utilize carbon as a reducing agent, which is oxidized to CO2, resulting in considerable emissions and having a negative impact on climate change. In order to abate their emissions, extractive industries will have to go through a profound transformation, including switching to alternative climate-neutral energy and feedstock sources. This paper presents the authors’ perspectives for consideration in relation to the H2 potential for direct reduction of oxide and sulfide ores. For each case scenario, the reduction of CO2 emissions is analyzed, and a breakthrough route for H2S decomposition is presented, which is a by-product of the direct reduction of sulfide ores with H2. Electrified indirect-fired metallurgical kiln advantages are also presented, a solution that can substitute fossil fuel-based heating technologies, which is one of the main backbones of industrial processes currently applied to the extractive industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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15 pages, 3947 KiB  
Perspective
Perspective for the Safe and High-Efficiency Storage of Liquid Hydrogen: Thermal Behaviors and Insulation
by Haoren Wang, Yunfei Gao, Bo Wang, Quanwen Pan and Zhihua Gan
Hydrogen 2024, 5(3), 559-573; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen5030031 - 29 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2586
Abstract
Liquid hydrogen is a promising energy carrier in the global hydrogen value chain with the advantages of high volumetric energy density/purity, low operating pressure, and high flexibility in delivery. Safe and high-efficiency storage and transportation are essential in the large-scale utilization of liquid [...] Read more.
Liquid hydrogen is a promising energy carrier in the global hydrogen value chain with the advantages of high volumetric energy density/purity, low operating pressure, and high flexibility in delivery. Safe and high-efficiency storage and transportation are essential in the large-scale utilization of liquid hydrogen. Aiming at the two indicators of the hold time and normal evaporation rate (NER) required in standards, this paper focuses on the thermal behaviors of fluid during the no-vented storage of liquid hydrogen and thermal insulations applied for the liquid hydrogen tanks, respectively. After presenting an overview of experimental/theoretical investigations on thermal behaviors, as well as typical forms/testing methods of performance of thermal insulations for liquid hydrogen tanks, seven perspectives are proposed on the key challenges and recommendations for future work. This work can benefit the design and improvement of high-performance LH2 tanks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Hydrogen Technologies: Production, Storage and Utilization)
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