Liquid hydrogen storage and regasification process integrated with LNG, NGL, and liquid helium production

Abstract

Hydrogen (H2) is a clean energy carrier and has recently gained significant attention. Efforts are being made to promote liquid hydrogen (LH2) owing to its long-time storage, transportation, and high-purity end-use requirements. LH2 storage and regasification is an essential step in the H2 supply chain. This study proposes a novel integrated energy system that produces liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas liquids (NGL), and liquid helium (LHe) utilizing the cold energy of LH2. A well-known process simulation software (Aspen Hysys® v11) is employed to simulate the integrated process. The optimal design variables are found through the Aspen Hysys® built-in Mixed optimization technique. The optimal design shows a specific energy consumption of 0.347 kWh/kg with exergy destruction of 43.3 MW. The required volume of the spherical tank for LH2 storage is 6.3 m3. The results of the lifecycle cost analysis show that the Levelized cost of producing LNG, NGL, and LHe is 0.50 USD/kg, 0.56 USD/kg, and 98.0 USD/kg, respectively. The conclusion of this study suggests that the proposed process can improve the overall H2 supply chain by effectively utilizing LH2 for LNG, NGL, and LHe production.