Renewables

Hydrogen

Hydrogen is the third most abundant element in the Earth’s surface, where it is found primarily in water (H₂O) and organic compounds. It is generally produced from hydrocarbons or water; and when burned as a fuel, or converted to electricity, it joins with oxygen to form water again.

Hydrogen can be made by separating it from hydrocarbons by applying heat, a process known as ‘reforming’ hydrogen. An electric current can also be used to separate water into its components of oxygen and hydrogen. Some algae and bacteria, using sunlight as their energy source, even give off hydrogen under certain conditions.

Hydrogen is high in energy, yet an engine that burns pure hydrogen produces almost no pollution. NASA has used liquid hydrogen since the 1970s to propel the space shuttle and other rockets into orbit. Hydrogen fuel cells power the shuttle’s electrical systems, producing a clean by-product - pure water - which the crew drinks.

Fuel cells are a promising technology for use as a source of heat and electricity for buildings, and as an electrical power source for electric vehicles.