NETL’s Natural Gas Decarbonization and Hydrogen Technologies (NGDHT) Program aspires to transform the nation’s hydrogen supply chain through technology advancements and adaptations of existing infrastructure that improve the production, transportation, and storage capabilities of hydrogen as a fuel source.
R&D activities are focused on reducing the energy intensity required to produce hydrogen; reducing material fatigue to existing infrastructure and components due to its smaller molecular size (compared to natural gas); and improving the subsurface storage methods for hydrogen within geologic formations. An ongoing program objective is to make technologies applicable for near-term field-testing and long-term implementation as the nation transitions to a net-zero emissions energy supply chain.
To provide a well-rounded approach, R&D is also focused on developing reaction catalysts; advanced natural gas-to-hydrogen conversion solutions; pipeline coatings; specialized injection, transport, and storage system components; and advanced subsurface storage characterization efforts.
The emerging hydrogen supply chain and hydrogen energy economy encompasses many possible roadblocks that will need to be overcome by further R&D. Effective solutions will be aimed at improving infrastructure safety, reliability, and flexibility to ensure the security of the hydrogen supply chain.
NETL’s NGDHT Program covers research within three primary categories:
