Bio-Based LOHC Mixtures for Low-Energy Hydrogen Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrogen carriers, such as aromatic hydrocarbons and heteroaromatic compounds, are expensive due to the use of scarce noble metals, inefficient in energy consumption, and derived from non-renewable resources, limiting their decarbonization potential.
Innovation Solution
Development of hydrogenated organic liquids (LOHCs) synthesized from renewable bio-based resources, using less energy-intensive dehydrogenation processes and alternative catalysts like copper and nickel, allowing reversible hydrogenation and dehydrogenation without noble metals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional hydrogen carriers (aromatic hydrocarbons, heteroaromatic compounds) are used, then hydrogen storage and transport capability is achieved, but cost increases due to use of scarce noble metals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive noble metal catalysts (platinum, palladium, rhodium) with cheaper alternative catalysts based on abundant metals such as nickel, copper, iron, and cobalt. These alternative catalysts achieve comparable catalytic activity for hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions, significantly reducing the cost of hydrogen carrier systems while maintaining functional performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies reaction parameters including temperature, pressure, and catalyst composition to optimize the performance of alternative non-noble metal catalysts. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves efficient hydrogen storage and release cycles using cost-effective catalysts, resolving the contradiction between hydrogen capacity and manufacturing cost.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional LOHC dehydrogenation processes are used, then hydrogen is released, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes dehydrogenation reaction parameters including temperature, pressure, and catalyst composition to reduce energy consumption. By using alternative catalysts and adjusting operational parameters, the system achieves efficient hydrogen release at lower energy input compared to conventional processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous hydrogenation-dehydrogenation cycles where the hydrogen carrier is repeatedly used. The dehydrogenated carrier is continuously regenerated through hydrogenation, creating a sustainable loop that reduces overall energy consumption per unit of hydrogen released while maintaining continuous operational capability.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional LOHCs derived from non-renewable resources are used, then hydrogen transport is achieved, but decarbonization potential is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the feedstock source from conventional fossil-based aromatic hydrocarbons to renewable biomass-derived platform chemicals such as furfural, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and levulinic acid. This parameter change in原料 sourcing enables the production of renewable LOHCs that can be sustainably hydrogenated and dehydrogenated, achieving hydrogen transport while reducing dependence on non-renewable resources and lowering carbon emissions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The new LOHCs achieve high hydrogen concentration and efficiency with reduced energy consumption, utilizing bio-based resources and less expensive catalysts, enhancing decarbonization and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The hydrogen-rich organic liquid is then dehydrogenated in a second reaction to regenerate the hydrogen and the hydrogen-deficient organic liquid. Advantageously, these LOHCs are thus capable of being reversibly hydrogenated and dehydrogenated in the presence of a catalyst.
Implementation Method 2
The hydrogen-rich organic liquid is then dehydrogenated in a second reaction to regenerate the hydrogen and the hydrogen-deficient organic liquid.
Implementation Method 3
Advantageously, these LOHCs are thus capable of being reversibly hydrogenated and dehydrogenated in the presence of a catalyst.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to mixtures of liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC) and to pairs consisting of an LOHC mixture and corresponding dehydrogenated LOHC(s). The invention also relates to the uses of said mixtures for transporting and storing hydrogen as well as to hydrogen generation methods using same.