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Background
Hydrogen Applications
Hydrogen as a Fuel
Background
Hydrogen is the simplest and most common element in the universe. It is 14.5 times lighter than air and does not naturally exist as hydrogen gas but rather as part of a compound where it is bonded to other elements. For example, it is found in water (H2O) and in hydrocarbons such as natural gas (CH4). To produce pure hydrogen we have to ‘unlock’ the chemical bonds in the molecules that form these substances.
Hydrogen Applications
Hydrogen properties have made it a very useful substance for a wide range of applications. Hydrogen has been used safely in industry for many decades in the manufacturing processes of many common household products, for example: glass, margarine, soap, and even toothpaste. Now, in the emerging hydrogen energy market we are realizing the potential of hydrogen as a clean burning fuel for fuel cell vehicles and appliances, or internal combustion engines that have been modified to operate on hydrogen.
Hydrogen as a Fuel
Hydrogen is an excellent fuel for several reasons. Hydrogen contains more energy than any other fuel on an equal mass basis – in other words, one kilogram of hydrogen contains more releasable energy than one kilogram of any other fuel. For example, one kilogram of hydrogen has very close to the same energy content as one gallon of gasoline. In addition to being clear and odorless, it is non-toxic, non-corrosive and non-carcinogenic, therefore it doesn't have any adverse effects on the environment.
Source: Hydrogenics