Risks Associated with the Use of Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier or Source

Abstract

Hydrogen is a dangerous gas due to its low ignition energy, wide flammability range, promotion of the embrittlement of steel, and its high coefficient of permeation for polymers. The fracture toughness and failure elongation of pipe steels are strongly impacted by hydrogen embrittlement, whereas yield stress and ultimate strength are moderately impacted. Specific tools are required for the pipe defect assessment used for the transport of hydrogen, which is pure or blended with natural gas. The safety factors associated with cracks or scratches are obtained through the failure assessment diagram or the notch failure assessment diagram. The corrosion defects are assessed by limit analysis, and the estimated repair factor and dents are evaluated by computing the damage value under service pressure. The design factor in the calculation of the maximum admissible operating pressure (MAOP) is modified depending on the location of the pipes to account for the lethal risks from the torch effect or explosion. It is crucial to monitor the leaks due to hydrogen permeation through domestic hydrogen distribution networks, particularly in closed areas.