Hydrogen Fuel at a Glance

Before we delve into the fascinating world of hydrogen fuel categories, let's establish a foundational understanding of hydrogen's role in clean energy. Hydrogen primarily serves as fuel in its molecular form, H₂. When hydrogen gas undergoes combustion or is used in fuel cells, it produces energy, with the only byproduct being water vapor. This clean characteristic makes it an exceptionally eco-friendly energy source.

1. Green Hydrogen

Source: Green hydrogen is produced via a process called electrolysis, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy sources like wind, solar, or hydroelectric power.

Usage: Green hydrogen is celebrated as the pinnacle of clean energy. Its minimal carbon footprint makes it a preferred choice across multiple sectors. For example, companies like Hyundai and Toyota are actively manufacturing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), including the Hyundai Nexo and Toyota Mirai, which utilize green hydrogen. Furthermore, Australia's ambitious "Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain" project involves a consortium of companies, including Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Shell, and Iwatani Corporation, aiming to produce green hydrogen for export.

2. Blue Hydrogen

Source: Blue hydrogen is derived from natural gas through steam methane reforming (SMR), with carbon emissions captured and stored to prevent their release.

Usage: Firms such as Air Products are investing in blue hydrogen production to mitigate carbon emissions. Air Products' "H2: Low Carbon Hydrogen" project in the United Kingdom exemplifies a large-scale blue hydrogen initiative.

3. Grey Hydrogen

Source: Grey hydrogen is also produced from natural gas but lacks carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, resulting in carbon emissions.

Usage: Despite its emissions, grey hydrogen continues to play a significant role in industries such as refining and ammonia production. Linde and other major players are exploring cleaner alternatives while utilizing grey hydrogen.

4. Turquoise Hydrogen

Source: Turquoise hydrogen is generated through pyrolysis, converting natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon without releasing carbon dioxide.

Usage: While still in experimental stages, turquoise hydrogen displays promise for carbon-free hydrogen production. Industries such as electronics manufacturing, with companies like Bosch closely monitoring its development, may benefit from this technology.

5. Pink Hydrogen

Source: Pink hydrogen is produced using nuclear power to power electrolysis, ensuring a clean and efficient hydrogen production process.

Usage: Japan's Fukushima Hydrogen Energy Research Field (FH2R) stands as a prime example of pink hydrogen production. It is the world's largest hydrogen production facility powered by renewable energy, generating both green and pink hydrogen.

6. Purple Hydrogen

Source: Purple hydrogen is harnessed from biomass or organic waste materials through biogas reforming, rendering it carbon-neutral.

Usage: Leading companies like Ørsted are investing in purple hydrogen. Ørsted's "H2RES" project in Denmark aims to produce hydrogen using offshore wind power and biomass, contributing to a greener energy mix.

7. Brown Hydrogen

Source: Brown hydrogen is produced through coal gasification, a carbon-intensive process that releases substantial carbon emissions into the atmosphere.

Usage: Brown hydrogen is an outdated method of hydrogen production, not aligned with sustainability goals. The global consensus is to phase out brown hydrogen production in favor of cleaner alternatives. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.

Stay tuned for more articles on our very own Mr. Humble Hydrogen!