The Role of Hydrogen in Our World

1.

The Role of Hydrogen
in Our World
Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, plays a crucial role
on Earth and in our economy. While it constitutes only 1% by weight on
our planet, it is a cornerstone in various industries. Its potential as an
energy source has been increasingly explored since the oil crisis of the
1970s, offering a high energy density and environmental compatibility.
by Zhanyl Abilbek

2.

Economic Importance of Hydrogen
9
1%
R ank
Abundance
Hydrogen is the ninth most common element
It makes up 1% of the Earth's weight.
on Earth.
400B
1 0%
Consumption '96
Growth
Approximately 400 billion cubic meters
Expected annual consumption growth in
consumed globally in 1996.
certain applications.

3.

Hydrogen Utilization
1
Industrial Chemical
Hydrogen is primarily used as a chemical raw material in various industries.
2
Energy Source
Post-1973 oil crisis, hydrogen's potential as a secondary energy source has been explored.
3
Environmental Benefits
It is nonpoisonous and has high environmental compatibility, making it a cleaner
energy option.

4.

Hydrogen Manufacture Overview
Petrochemical
Processes
Electrolysis of Water
Byproduct Production
Less than 3% of hydrogen
Hydrogen is also generated
Over 90% of hydrogen is
is produced by electrolysis
as a byproduct in various
produced through
of water, a process with
industries like
petrochemical processes,
lower overall efficiency but
petrochemical processes
including gasification of
important for pure hydrogen
and refineries.
coal and steam reforming
needs.
of natural gas.

5.

Petrochemical Processes and Coal
Gasification
1
Natural Gas R eforming
The most economical method, especially in the USA, using methane to produce
hydrogen.
2
Heavy Fuel Oil Oxidation
Partial oxidation of heavy fuel oil and crude oil residues is also an important
industrial process.
3
Coal Gasification
In regions with cheap coal, such as South Africa, hydrogen production by coal
gasification is increasingly used.

6.

Electrolysis of Water
Current R ole
Future Potential
Industrial Use
E lectrolysis accounts for a
Could become more
Used where pure hydrogen
small portion of hydrogen
important in a post-oil era
is required, such as in food
production due to its lower
with a hydrogen-based
technology or for small
efficiency.
economy.
consumers.

7.

Hydrogen in Ammonia Production
Ammonia Plants
Integrated with hydrogen production for
efficiency.
Usage
Over half of hydrogen is utilized in
producing ammonia, a key ingredient in
Processes
fertilizers.
S team reforming, partial oxidation, and
gasification are all critical in ammonia
production.

8.

Advancements in Hydrogen
Production
High-Temperature Electrolysis
R ecent developments include high-temperature steam electrolysis, reducing energy
consumption.
Solid Polymer Electrolytes
The S PE -process uses solid polymer electrolytes for more efficient hydrogen production.
Heavy Water Byproduct
Heavy water, D20, can be produced as a byproduct in water electrolysis, enriching the
electrolyte.