Hydrogen as an energy carrier: properties, storage methods, challenges, and future implications

The study presents a comprehensive review on the utilization of hydrogen as an energy carrier, examining its properties, storage methods, associated challenges, and potential future implications. Hydrogen, due to its high energy content and clean combustion, has emerged as a promising alternative to fossil fuels in the quest for sustainable energy. Despite its benefits, the storage of hydrogen presents significant technical challenges due to its low density and high reactivity. This study discusses various storage methods, including compression, liquefaction, and adsorption in metal hydrides and other complex compounds, elucidating their advantages and drawbacks. The challenges in adopting hydrogen as an energy carrier, such as production costs, safety concerns, and infrastructure requirements are also explored. The future implications of hydrogen are promising but dependent on technological advancements and policy interventions. Transitioning to hydrogen as a major energy carrier could greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lead to more resilient and diversified energy systems. Nonetheless, this transition requires substantial innovation and investment in cleaner production methods, efficient storage systems, and supportive infrastructure. This review thus underscores the potential of hydrogen as an energy carrier while emphasizing the need for further research and development to overcome existing challenges.