Transporting hydrogen using iron

 Researchers from Universität Duisburg-Essen are using photovoltaic systems supply electrical energy to split water into oxygen and H2 in an electrolysis. Next they used the hydrogen to reduce iron ore (iron oxide) to obtain iron – which is shipped as mini briquettes or pellets without any environmental risk. At the destination, the reverse reaction is initiated to obtain hydrogen and iron oxide again. Working with partners from Clausthal and Bremen as well as associated industrial partners, the team wants to develop a concept for its implementation on an industrial scale. Iron may not be the best material because of its mass but it is cheap to obtain.





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