Comparative Hazard and Environmental Assessment for Hydrogen and Formic Acid Production, Storage, and Utilization for Renewables

Abstract

Hydrogen developed on a large scale may be a critical component of the clean energy transition. Methanol, ammonia, and formic acid are among the chemical hydrides proposed for hydrogen storage. The main benefit of formic acid over ammonia and methanol as a hydrogen storage material is that it can be used at room temperature. Hydrogen can offer a clean alternative to fossil fuels. While hydrogen produces no harmful emissions during operation, developing infrastructure for storing and transporting hydrogen is challenging and costly, which requires either very high pressures or very low temperatures. The main goal of this chapter is to compare the hazards and environmental effects of hydrogen and formic acid energy carriers. In addition, two different methods of producing formic acid using carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide as raw materials are compared. More specifically, the factors that should be considered in hazard/risk assessment affecting the environment are determined. This study summarizes and compares different hazard statements and mitigation measures for hydrogen and formic acid fuels that can be used for renewable energy storage.