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1 Amorphous carbon was facilely obtained via the treatment of waste papers with sulfuric acid. 2 The combination of amorphous carbon with graphitic carbon nitride leads to an increased photo-catalytic H 2 generation. 3 The enhancement in H 2 generation is resultant from the efficient separation of electrons and holes owing to the excellent electrical conductivity of amorphous carbon. Up-cycling of waste papers to value-added carbon products has significant environmental and economic benefits in real life. This work aims to recycle the waste papers to construct amorphous carbon modified graphitic carbon nitride composite photocatalysts for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen generation from water under visible light. Amorphous carbon (labeled as a-C) was yielded from the office waste papers by simple sulphuric-acid treatment and then combined with graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) to form the g-CN/a-C composite photocatalysts by the thermolysis of a-C and melamine mixture. The addition of a-C enlarges the surface area of g-CN from 11.52 m2 g−1 of pristine g-CN to 28.12 m2 g−1 of g-CN/a-C-100. In addition, the a-C incorporation can significantly separate the electrons from the photoexcited g-CN owing to the excellent conductivity of a-C. As a result, an increased photocatalytic H 2 generation was realized under visible light exposure. The g-CN/a-C-100 sample with optimized a-C contents offers the highest photocatalytic H 2 generation rate of up to 17.1 μ mol h−1, which is ∼12 times higher than that of pristine g-CN under the same condition. The present study manifests the great potential of the recycling of office waste papers for increased photocatalytic H 2 generation. Graphical Abstract [Display omitted]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biohythane, the promising gaseous biofuel, can be produced by the recirculated two-phase anaerobic digestion (R-TPAD). The effect of hydraulic retention time (HRT) as 30, 20 and 10 days on biohythane production via R-TPAD (recirculation ratio = 0.4) was investigated with co-digestion of food waste and paper waste. The results showed that HRTs of 30 and 20 days maintained stable performance for R-TPAD but HRT of 10 days led to the final decrease in biogas production. The failure in the end was attributed to the wash-out of microbes. The removal efficiencies for COD and carbohydrates were decreased by short HRTs while for VS it remained relatively stable at about 75.7 ± 4.0%. All through the operation, acidogenic phase and methanogenic phase were separated stably and butyrate pathway was the dominant pathway for hydrogen fermentation in the first stage. The microbial community in the first stage reached the highest diversity when total HRT was 20 days, where the hydrogen production rate was the highest. The genera Lactobacillus and Caproiciproducens kept dominating the dark fermentation in the acidogenic phase, and Ruminococcus and Methanosarcina were decreasing in the methanogenic phase. The biohythane yields were 411 mL/g-VS fed , 332 mL/g-VS fed and 253 mL/g-VS fed , respectively, where the H 2 contents were 18.4%, 14.7% and 8.8%, respectively. [Display omitted] • The R-TPAD system (R = 0.4) was operated for biohythane production. • R-TPAD operated under HRTs of 30 and 20 maintained stable performance. • Organic removals and biohythane yields were lowered by short HRTs. • Different microbial communities were identified by co-occurrence network. • Biohythane yields affected by different parameters were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As new sources of energy and advanced technologies are used, there is a continuous evolution in energy supply, demand, and distribution. Advanced nuclear reactors and clean hydrogen have the opportunity to scale together and diversify the hydrogen production market away from fossil fuel-based production. Nevertheless, the technical uncertainties surrounding nuclear hydrogen processes necessitate thorough research and a solid development effort. This paper aims to position pink hydrogen for nuclear hydrogen production at the forefront of sustainable energy-related solutions by offering a comprehensive review of recent advancements in nuclear hydrogen production, covering both research endeavors and industrial applications. It delves into various pink hydrogen generation methodologies, elucidating their respective merits and challenges. Furthermore, this paper analyzes the evolving landscape of pink hydrogen in terms of its levelized cost by comparatively assessing different production pathways. By synthesizing insights from academic research and industrial practices, this paper provides valuable perspectives for stakeholders involved in shaping the future of nuclear hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, hydrogen is gaining attention as one of the green energy alternatives within transition to a zero-emission economy. Increasing demand for hydrogen and its production has prompted the development of low-carbon strategies and technologies for hydrogen generation from hydrocarbons. This paper provides a thorough analysis of traditional and innovative methods for hydrogen production from fossil feedstock, reviewing the critical aspects and recent advancements in the field. The paper emphasizes the potential of in situ hydrogen generation as the most promising method, taking into account CO2 emission concerns. Additionally, this study explores the use of software packages for modeling hydrogen production, outlining their advantages and disadvantages and proposing the most favorable software for in situ hydrogen generation from hydrocarbons. Subsequent analysis sheds light on the effectiveness, economic viability, environmental impact, and future perspectives of various hydrogen production technologies. • Overview of hydrogen production technologies: conventional and innovative methods. • Key issues and best practices of the latest experimental and numerical studies. • Comparative analysis of various hydrogen production technologies and approaches. • Subsurface hydrogen generation has a great development potential. • There are methods for clean hydrogen production from hydrocarbon feedstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the current trends of wind energy already playing a major part in the Scottish energy supply, the capacity of wind farms is predicted to grow exponentially and reach further depths offshore. However, a key challenge that presents itself is the integration of large producing assets into the current UK grid. One potential solution to this is green hydrogen production, which is being heavily researched in industry, with many concepts being investigated for large-scale purposes. However, the operations and maintenance (O&M) costs and availability of green hydrogen systems need to be quantified to ensure economical and technical viability, which is sparse in the available literature. The study presented in this paper investigated the availability and O&M costs of coupled wind–hydrogen systems by attempting to quantify the failure rates, repair times, repair costs and number of technicians required for key green hydrogen components. This study also utilised an O&M model created by the University of Strathclyde, which uses Monte Carlo Markov chain simulations to produce the O&M outputs. A number of assumptions were made throughout the study in relation to the O&M model inputs, and the baseline availability for the coupled wind–hydrogen system was 85.24%. Whilst the wind turbine still contributed a major part to the downtime seen in the simulations, the combined hydrogen system also contributed a significant amount, a total of 37%, which could have been due to the technology readiness levels of some the components included in the hydrogen system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, one of the most important areas in refining the energy sector in the developed countries is the transition to environmentally friendly technologies, and hydrogen energy production is the most promising of them. In this rapidly advancing area, significant progress in creating new technologies for hydrogen fuel generation, transportation, storage, and consumption has been recently observed, while a fast-growing number of research papers and implemented commercial projects related to hydrogen makes it necessary to give their general review. In particular, the combination of the latest achievements in this area is of particular interest with a view to analyzing the possibility of creating hydrogen fuel supply chains. This paper presents an analytical review of existing methods of hydrogen production, storage, and transportation, including their key economic and energy-related characteristics, and proposes an approach to the creation, analysis, and optimization of hydrogen supply chains. A mathematical model has been developed to determine the cost of hydrogen, taking into account the supply chain, including production, transport and storage. Based on the results of modeling in the given scenario conditions for 2030, 2040 and 2050, promising hydrogen supply chains have been established. Under the various scenario conditions, hydrogen production by 2050 is most preferable by the method of steam conversion of methane with a cost of 8.85 USD/kg H2. However, due to the environmental effect, electrolysis also remains a promising technology with a cost of hydrogen produced of 17.84 USD/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a systematic and comprehensive mathematical model for alkaline water electrolyzer cells, which can be used for simulation and analysis. The model accounts for factors such as gas evolution reactions, dissolution of gases in the electrolyte, bubble formation, and charge transport. It is based on a numerical two-phase model using the Euler-Euler approach, which has been validated against experimental data for various current densities. The study compares the impact of varying potassium hydroxide (KOH) concentration, separator porosity, and electrolyte flow rates on two-phase flow and bubble coverage. Therefore, the electrolyte in the cell consists of a solution of potassium hydroxide in water. The formation of gas bubbles at the electrodes decreases the electrolyte's ionic conductivity. Additionally, the presence of these bubbles on the electrode surfaces reduces the available surface area for electrochemical reactions, leading to an increase in the overpotential at a given current density. Furthermore, this paper demonstrates how a neural network and ensembled tree model can predict hydrogen production rates in an alkaline water electrolysis process. The trained neural network accurately predicted the hydrogen production rates, indicating the potential of using neural networks for optimization and control of alkaline water electrolysis processes. The model has an average R-squared value of 0.98, indicating a good fit to the data. A new method of describing bubble transfer, "bubble diffusion," is introduced to improve performance and reduce costs. The model is solved using COMSOL Multi physics 6.0. The machine learning models in this study were built, trained, and tested using MATLAB software R2020a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, NiCo2S4 was coated on the surface of WS2 of a 1T/2H mixed phase by a two-step hydrothermal method to form an in situ core–shell structure. The unique S-scheme heterojunction of the NiCo2S4@WS2 core–shell composite photocatalyst improved the easy recombination of carriers caused by the narrow band gap of NiCo2S4 and WS2, and improved the photocatalytic hydrogen production performance. The loading ratio of NiCo2S4@WS2, the addition of Eosin Y, and the pH value of TEOA were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the hydrogen production rate reached 5.814 mmol g−1 h−1, which is about 8.55 times and 3.35 times the hydrogen evolution rates of NiCo2S4 and WS2, respectively. The composite catalyst exhibits excellent charge separation efficiency in photoelectrochemistry, PL and BET tests, carrier transport rate and large specific surface area that can provide more active sites, which are the main factors for the improvement of the hydrogen evolution performance. This paper demonstrates new design strategies to drive efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production by building in situ core–shell structures and optimizing the carrier transport paths, which will yield new insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) in circulation has undergone a significant increase in recent years. This trend is foreseen to be stronger in the near future. In correlation with the FCEVs market increase, the hydrogen delivery infrastructure must be developed. With this aim, many countries have announced ambitious projects. For example, Spain has the objective of increasing the number of Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) with public access from three units in operation currently to about 150 by 2030. HRSs are complex systems with high variability in terms of layout design, size of components, operational strategy, hydrogen generation method or hydrogen generation location. This paper is focused on on-site HRS with electrolysis-based hydrogen production, which provides interesting advantages when renewable energy is utilized compared to off-site hydrogen production despite their complexity. To optimize HRS design and operation, a simulation model must be implemented. This paper describes a generic on-site HRS with electrolysis-based hydrogen production, a cascaded multi-tank storage system with multiple compressors, renewable energy sources, and multiple types of dispensing formats. A modelling approach of the layout is presented and tested with real-based parameters of an HRS currently under development, which is capable of producing 11.34 kg/h of green H 2 with irradiation at 1000 W/m2. For the operation, an operational strategy is proposed. The modelled system is tested through several simulations. A sensitivity analysis of the effects of hydrogen demand and day-ahead hydrogen production objective on emissions, demand satisfaction and variable costs is performed. Simulation results show how the operational strategy has achieved service up to 310 FCEVs refuelling events of heavy duty and light duty FCEVs, bringing the total H 2 sold up to almost 7200 H2kg in one month of winter. Additionally, considering variable costs of the energy from the utility grid, the model shows a profit in the range of 21–50 k€ for a daily demand of 60 H2kg/day and 100 H2kg/day, respectively. In terms of emissions, a year simulation with 60 H2kg/day of demand shows specific emissions in the production of H 2 in Spain of 6.26 kgCO2eq/H2kg, which represents a greenhouse gas emission intensity of 52.26 gCO2eq/H2MJ. • Modelling approach of hydrogen refuelling station with on-site hydrogen production. • Operational strategy with day-ahead scheduled grid-connected hydrogen production. • Finite-state machine online control of a multi-tank and multi-compressor plant. • Sensitivity analysis of hydrogen demand magnitude and frequency. • A trade-off between demand satisfaction, profits and emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An alternative solution to the problem of aluminum–plastic multilayer waste utilization was suggested. The process can be used for hydrogen generation and layer separation. Three different sorts of aluminum–plastic sandwich materials were treated with an alkali solution. In the temperature range of 50–70 °C, for tablet blisters of polyvinylchloride and aluminum (14.8 wt.%), the latter thoroughly reacted in 15–30 min. For sheets of paper, polyethylene, and aluminum (20 wt.%), full hydrogen 'recovery' from reacted aluminum component took 3–8 min. From the lids of polyethylene terephthalate, aluminum (60 wt.%), and painted polyethylene with perforations, the aluminum was consumed after 45–105 min. The effect of perforations was the reduction of the process duration from nearly 90 min for the lids with no perforations to nearly 45 min for the perforated ones (at 70 °C). Perforations provided better contact between the aluminum foil, isolated between the plastic layers, and the alkali solution. Hydrogen bubbles originating near those perforations provided foil separation from the upper painted plastic layer by creating gas gaps between them. The remaining components of the composite multilayer materials were separated and ready for further recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) are critical for the popularity of hydrogen vehicles (fuel cell electric vehicles—FCEVs). However, due to high installation investment and operating costs, the proliferation of HRSs is difficult. This paper studies HRSs with on-site electrolytic production and hydrogen storage devices and proposes an optimization method to minimize the total costs including both installation investment and operating costs (OPT-ISL method). Moreover, to acquire the optimization constraints of hydrogen demand, this paper creatively develops a refueling behavior simulation method for different kinds of FCEVs and proposes a hydrogen-demand estimation model to forecast the demand with hourly intervals for HRS. The Jensen–Shannon divergence is applied to verify the accuracy of the hydrogen-demand estimation. The result: 0.029 is much smaller than that of the estimation method in reference. Based on the estimation results and peak-valley prices of electricity from the grid, a daily hydrogen generation plan is obtained, as well as the optimal capacities of electrolyzers and storage devices. As for the whole costs, compared with previous configuration methods that only consider investment costs or operating costs, the proposed OPT-ISL method has the least, 8.1 and 10.5% less, respectively. Moreover, the proposed OPT-ISL method shortens the break-even time for HRS from 11.1 years to 7.8 years, a decrease of 29.7%, so that the HRS could recover its costs in less time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a confinement approach to enhance solid-state hydrogen storage by designing a nano-tubular and nano-fibrous structured boron-based storage medium. We detail the preparation of the confinement matrix, emphasizing its nanotubular and microfibrous structures provided by activated halloysite and sepiolite clays to achieve suitable confinement for ammonia borane (NH 3 BH 3 , AB). The thermolysis characteristics are thoroughly investigated in a lab-scale hydrogen reactor, elucidating the activation effects (thermal, acid, and both thermal-acid) on confinement and hydrogen generation performance. The resulting composite exhibits improved thermal stability and controlled hydrogen desorption characteristics, offering great promise for safe and efficient hydrogen storage applications. This research underscores the potential of tailored nanomaterials in advancing hydrogen storage technologies, with significant implications for clean energy solutions and the sustainable transportation sector. AB confined in acid-activated nano-tubular clay has shown improved hydrogen generation features at 120 °C, resulting in the highest improvement in H 2 equivalent per AB mole (98 %) and the initial hydrogen generation rate (233 %) while minimizing induction time up to 90 %. [Display omitted] • Tubular and fiber structured clays were used as ammonia borane scaffolds medium. • Halloysite and sepiolite clays were activated by thermal, acidic and combined method. • NH 3 BH 3 based nanocarriers were prepared via modified infiltration-confinement method. • Hydrogen production performance of composites were tested at 120 °C. • Acid activated composites showed the highest performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high-performance and highly stable electrocatalysts is crucial and challenging for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). MOFs complexed with SnS2 can form complexes with inserted structures, and their large specific surface area and numerous pores favor mass transfer, exposing the S active sites to more SnS2, improving the utilisation of the active sites and enhancing the catalytic activity for the HER. Structural collapse can be hindered to improve the stability of the HER composites. Herein, six different kinds of SnS2 were synthesized by a hydrothermal method under discrete conditions, and SI8-SnS2 was screened out to have optimal morphology and electrocatalytic performance. Two innovative SnS2@Ni-MOF and SnS2@HKUST-1 as efficient electrocatalysts were synthesized by a facile grinding method for hydrogen generation. SnS2@Ni-MOF and SnS2@HKUST-1 catalysts showed lower overpotentials of 117 mV and 142 mV at 10 mA cm−2 (η10) and smaller Tafel slopes (58 mV dec−1 and 93 mV dec−1) than six different kinds of SnS2, Ni-MOF and HKUST-1 in 0.5 M H2SO4. Meanwhile, the Cdl values for SnS2@Ni-MOF and SnS2@HKUST-1 were estimated to be 11.5 mF cm−2 and 8.0 mF cm−2, and the stabilities of SnS2, Ni-MOF, HKUST-1, SnS2@Ni-MOF, and SnS2@HKUST-1 were tested at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. The current densities of SnS2@Ni-MOF and SnS2@HKUST-1 were stable over 8 h compared to the pure samples, and SEM, XPS tests were run after the HER test, indicating that the materials have excellent electrocatalytic stability. The syntheses of SnS2@Ni-MOF and SnS2@HKUST-1 enhance their intrinsic catalytic activity, and the porous structure promotes mass transfer efficiency, thereby improving the HER performance, which will guide the development of new and promising electrocatalysts for HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper deals with the development and analysis of an innovative multigeneration plant, which is powered by geothermal energy, and integrated with the transcritical Rankine cycle ( t C O 2 − R C), proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer, multi-effect desalination unit (MED), and ejector cooling system (ECS). The main objective of this research paper is to produce power, hydrogen, freshwater, and cooling in an environmentally benign way, by integrating the different subsystems. A comprehensive parametric analysis that is thermodynamic and economic and exergo-environmental impact assessment are addressed. For these parametric analyses, the variation of some important parameters that affect the system performance is examined and illustrated. According to the modeling findings, the net power and hydrogen production capacity of the modeled combined power plant is 982.4 kW and 0.0024 kgs−1, respectively. The cycle's overall energy efficiency is computed to be 40.04%, although its exergetic efficiency is 36.31%. When the irreversibility among the plant components is compared, the highest irreversibility occurred in the PEM water heater with 1508 kW, followed by heat exchangers 1 and 2. Given the economic results, the modeled plant's cost rate is calculated to be 200.2 $/hr. In the end, it can be recommended that this modeled plant is suitable that is from the point of perspective of the performance, economy, and exergo-environmental relations. • A novel multigeneration plant motivated by geothermal energy is proposed. • Modeling and analysis of a multigeneration plant for power, hydrogen, cooling, and freshwater production. • Energy, exergy, economic, and exergo-environmental index analyses are conducted. • Investigating the green and sustainable hydrogen generation method with PEM electrolyzer. • The overall energy and exergy efficiencies are 40.04% and 36.31%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generally, a stand-alone flash-binary geothermal power plant loses most of its input energy, so its efficiency declines accordingly. Its overall ability can be augmentable by utilizing structural modification and waste heat recovery leading to the most suitable exergetic performance with lower costs. On this account, the current paper suggests and investigates an innovative waste heat recovery for a dual-flash binary geothermal power plant. The integrated process consists of a Rankine cycle, a reverse osmosis desalination, and a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer. Here, two main processes, i.e., waste heat-to-power and power-to-hydrogen/freshwater, are regarded. Accordingly, the applicability of the system is examined from the energy, exergy, and economic points of view. Thus, a relevant sensitivity analysis is applied to the response variables where the effect of separator 2 pressure is more significant than other parameters. In addition, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II) method is implemented to optimize the system thermodynamically and economically. The optimum state reveals an exergy efficiency of 43.83% and a levelized cost of products of 4.54 $/MWh. In this situation, the net output power and production rate of freshwater and hydrogen are estimated at 6474 kW, 22.51 kg/s, and 1.84 kg/h, respectively. Graphical representation of the novel devised renewable energy-fueled trigeneration setup [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Hydrogen is a strong candidate for fueling the green energy transition. Hydrogen, like all stores of potential energy, can be dangerous if not handled properly. The most common, and rapidly growing, source of green hydrogen is electrolysis of water. Electrolyzers split the water molecule into hydrogen and oxygen molecules. Hydrogen is flammable while oxygen is an oxidizer. If hydrogen escapes, a hazardous condition can be generated, which may have significant safety consequences. As a result, a commonly employed safeguard is a gas detection system with automatic shutdowns. This paper presents an overview of the hazards of hydrogen generation through electrolysis, and then presents a case study of the design of a gas detection system for an electrolyzer facility. The design of the gas detection system included using gas detection mapping approaches recommended by ISA TR 84.00.07 for placement of the required detectors along with recommendations by IEC 61511 for the design of the associated automatic shutdown of the electrolyzer and return to a safe state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continued use of energy sources based on fossil fuels has various repercussions for the environment. These repercussions are being minimized through the use of renewable energy supplies and new techniques to decarbonize the global energy matrix. For many years, hydrogen has been one of the most used gases in all kinds of industry, and now it is possible to produce it efficiently, on a large scale, and in a non-polluting way. This gas is mainly used in the chemical industry and in the oil refining industry, but the constant growth of its applications has generated the interest of all the countries of the world. Its use in transportation, petrochemical industries, heating equipment, etc., will result in a decrease in the production of greenhouse gases, which are harmful to the environment. This means hydrogen is widely used and needed by countries, creating great opportunities for hydrogen export business. This paper details concepts about the production of green hydrogen, its associated technologies, and demand projections. In addition, the current situation of several countries regarding the use of this new fuel, their national strategy, and advances in research carried out in different parts of the world for various hydrogen generation projects are discussed. Additionally, the great opportunities that Chile has for this new hydrogen export business, thanks to the renewable energy production capacities in the north and south of the country, are discussed. The latter is key for countries that require large amounts of hydrogen to meet the demand from various industrial, energy, and transportation sectors. Therefore, it is of global importance to determine the real capacities that this country has in the face of this new green fuel. For this, modeling was carried out through mathematical representations, showing the behavior of the technologies involved in the production of hydrogen for a system composed of an on-grid photovoltaic plant, an electrolyser, and compressor, together with a storage system. The program optimized the capacities of the equipment in such a way as to reduce the costs of hydrogen production and thereby demonstrate Chile's capacity for the production of this fuel. From this, it was found that the LCOH for the case study was equivalent to 3.5 USD/kg, which is not yet considered a profitable value for the long term. Due to this, five case studies were analyzed, to see what factors influence the LCOH, and thereby reduce it as much as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe-based chemical looping gasification is a clean biomass technology, which has the advantage of reducing CO2 emissions and the potential of self-sustaining operation without supplemental heating. A novel process combining Fe-based chemical looping and biomass pyrolysis was proposed and simulated using Aspen Plus. The biomass was first subjected to pyrolysis to coproduce biochar, bio-oil and pyrolysis gas; the pyrolysis gas was subjected to an Fe looping process to obtain high-purity hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The influences of the pyrolysis reactor operating temperature and fuel reactor operation temperature, and the steam reactor and air reactor on the process performance are researched. The results showed that, under the operating condition of the established process, 23.07 kg/h of bio-oil, 24.18 kg/h of biochar, 3.35 kg/h of hydrogen and a net electricity of 3 kW can be generated from 100 kg/h of rice straw, and the outlet CO2 concentration of the fuel reactor was as high as 80%. Moreover, the whole exergy efficiency and total exergy loss of the proposed process was 58.98% and 221 kW, respectively. Additionally, compared to biomass direct chemical looping hydrogen generation technology, the new process in this paper, using biomass pyrolysis gas as a reactant in the chemical looping hydrogen generation process, can enhance the efficiency of hydrogen generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable hydrogen is considered as one of the key technologies that may be needed to fully decarbonise our economies, providing the high-temperature heat, fuels and feedstock that might not be possible to electrify. Several pilot projects are underway, and some assessments of the economics of green hydrogen have been published. However, most of them have assessed the costs of producing renewable hydrogen in large-scale, grid-connected units. Another option, pointed by many as a robust strategy in the early stages, is to produce hydrogen locally, in "hydrogen valleys", to serve industrial demand. In this paper, the economics of the different technical configurations and strategies that might be used for this decentralised, variable-demand option are analysed, accounting for the impact that a non-constant operation may cause on the operational efficiency of electrolysers, and for the potential benefits of local hydrogen storage. Our results show that when hydrogen demand is variable, production costs are higher compared to the constant demand case, due to the higher electrolyser size required. Electricity price optimization plus hydrogen storage can be a valuable option in some cases, although the cost benefit is negligible (about 1%) unless price volatility in the market increases with higher RES shares, or investment costs decrease significantly. Sourcing electricity exclusively from a dedicated renewable power plant can only become competitive if electricity market prices rise as observed recently or triggered by increasing CO 2 prices. • Different production strategies are compared to minimise H 2 production costs. • Faraday efficiency increases costs for variable electricity generation. • Electricity price optimization is best for H2 valleys, although compression costs may change this. • Direct H 2 production from renewable plants is not competitive with current prices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the feasibility of municipal sewage sludge utilization as an energy source in a polygeneration system. This system offers distinctive benefits such as contribution to the principled removal of sewage sludge, simultaneous utilization of raw and digested sludge in different parts of the system, and production of renewable hydrogen from bio-waste. 4E (energy, exergy, exergoeconomic, and environmental) analyses, are performed to understand the system performance comprehensively. Then, parametric studies are examined the impact of changing the values of main parameters on the system operation. Afterward, a multi-objective optimization based on a genetic algorithm is carried out to achieve optimal values, considering a trade-off between the exergy efficiency and the total cost rate. Meanwhile, this work harnesses the potential of artificial neural networks to expedite complex and time-consuming optimization processes. According to the results, the gasifier exhibits the highest rate of exergy destruction, and the primary cost of consumption is attributed to its heat supply. The multi-objective optimization findings show that the optimum point has an exergy efficiency of 38.26 % and a total cost rate of 58.17 M$/year. The hydrogen production rate, energy efficiency, and net power generation rate for the optimal case are determined as 1692 kg/h, 35.24 %, and 4269 kW, respectively. Also, the unit cost of hydrogen in the optimal case is obtained 1.49 $/kg which offers a cost-effective solution for hydrogen production. [Display omitted] • 4E analysis and optimization performed on a bio-waste driven polygeneration system. • Plant optimized using artificial neural network and multi-objective genetic algorithm. • The feasibility of integrating a membrane for hydrogen separation investigated. • The optimum exergy efficiency and total cost rate obtained 38.26 % and 58.17 M$/year. • Hydrogen and electricity cost of 1.49 $/kg and 0.0145 $/kWh achieved for optimal case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly efficient electrode material is required to explore and apply to microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) with high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) efficiency. Pt/C was one of the most efficient catalysts for hydrogen production in current lab research, but it was expensive and some chemicals in wastewater were prone to Pt poisoning, which was a great limitation in application. Thus, a cheap and effective nickel(II) Oxide/Y (NiO/Y) material was prepared by using Y zeolites as carrier loaded with NiO in this study, which was used in MEC to evaluate the hydrogen evolution performance in comparison with Pt/C. The results indicated that NiO/Y composites showed a competitive HER performance to Pt/C. The linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) tests and Tafel plots showed that the NiO/Y composites exhibited the best catalytic activity for HER. In the MEC tests, the NiO/Y composites cathode was comparable with the Pt/C cathode in terms of current densities and energy efficiency. The coulombic efficiency, cathodic energy efficiency rate and hydrogen production rate obtained with NiO/Y cathode MEC was 85.88 ± 6.5%, 228.39 ± 3.2% and 0.83 ± 0.05 m3/m3d under, respectively, which were slightly higher than those obtained with the Pt/C cathode MEC. It was concluded that even with the cheap Y zeolites as the supports, the NiO/Y materials showed the superior performance, which was attributed to a good dispersing of the active component of NiO on the large specific surface area of Y zeolites and the fast escape of hydrogen bubbles from microporous and mesoporous structure of Y zeolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the results of an experimental study on hydrogen production at a tungsten discharge electrode with negative polarity in the DC electrolysis of a typical 10 wt% Na2CO3 aqueous solution in three operational regimes (the Faradaic, transition, and plasma-driven solution electrolysis (PDSE)) are presented for the first time. To focus the study on hydrogen production, a flowing inert gas (argon) was used to transport the gas mixture produced at the discharge electrode and prevent any other potential chemical reactions. The results showed that the highest hydrogen production rate of 0.147 g(H2)/h was achieved in the cathodic PDSE regime at the applied DC voltage of 198 V. However, the energy yield of hydrogen production of 0.405 g(H2)/kWh obtained at the applied voltage range of 141–170 V in the PDSE regime was lower than that obtained in the Faradaic regime (0.867 g(H2)/kWh) at 28 V. The energy balance of hydrogen production in the cathodic PDSE regime for the typical aqueous solution of Na2CO3 carried out for the first time showed that a significant share (˃98%) of the electrical energy consumed is spent on heating and evaporation of the electrolytic solution. This explains why the energy yield of hydrogen production is low in the PDSE regime. Because most of the energy is consumed for heat generation in the cathodic PDSE regime, organic liquid hydrogen carriers, such as alcohols, which have a lower boiling temperature, heat of evaporation, and standard Gibbs free energy, should be considered better aqueous electrolytic solutions in terms of the energy yield of hydrogen production in the PDSE regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of aluminum water to produce hydrogen is prevented by an alumina film. To prepare a kind of aluminum alloy with instant hydrogen production and high hydrogen yield, this paper investigates the effect of different Ga content and In–Sn ratio on the hydrogen production performance of aluminum alloy, and also observes the effect of hydrogen production at different temperatures. The composition, structure, and thermal properties are observed by Scanning Electron Microscope, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. With different ratios of In and Sn, they appear as two intermetallic compounds, In 3 Sn and InSn 4. When Ga, In, and Sn were added to aluminum together, the hydrolytic properties of the Al-Ga-In-Sn alloys are greatly improved. The paper finally prepared an aluminum alloy with a hydrogen conversion rate of more than 98% and activation energy of 39.2 kJ/mol. Further the development and utilization of hydrogen energy are promoted. [Display omitted] • A high hydrogen yielding aluminum alloy prepared by melting was proposed. • The hydrolysis rate is proportional to the reaction temperature. • Effect of Ga content and In–Sn ratio on hydrogen production performance. • Effect of low melting point elements on the activation energy of aluminum alloys. • The activation energy of Al-3%Ga-5.25%In-1.75%Sn is 39.2 kJ/mol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the properties and evolution during the calcination process of hydrolysis by−products from the reaction between Al−based composites and water for hydrogen generation were systematically investigated. The results showed that the main phases of by−products included AlOOH and InSn4. The amorphous product possessed a large Brunauer−Emmett−Teller (BET) surface area with 276.77 m2/g and high porosity properties with 0.37 cm3/g. The phase transformation of by−products from AlOOH to γ−Al2O3, δ−Al2O3, and α−Al2O3 occurred during the calcination process. It appears that the by−products can be used as raw materials for the preparation of Al2O3 with different crystal structures. Discussion on the properties and evolution of hydrolysis by−products are beneficial to product reuse and recovery. In this way, the cost reduction of hydrogen production via Al−water reaction can be realized, promoting the sustainable development of hydrogen production from Al−water reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents a novel integrated three-compartment electrochemical continuous electrodeionization reactor that was constructed in a laboratory environment. In order to extract large amounts of carbon dioxide from naturally occurring oceanwater in the form of bicarbonate and carbonate, it develops a innovative electrolytic cation exchange process. At the same time, it produces hydrogen gas for possible hydrocarbon synthesis. The study employs the Box-Behnken experimental design approach implemented through the Design Expert software to investigate and optimize the performance of electrochemical hydrogen extraction from Ocean water from an integrated reactor. The integrated electrochemical continuous-type electrodeionization reactor comprises two cation-permeable membranes that operate as boundaries between three compartments: a central compartment and electrode compartments that house the cathode and anode, each of which may reverse polarity. These membranes are made of gel polystyrene cross-linked with divinylbenzene, which has acidic properties that allow cation transport while inhibiting anions. The integrated reactor's electrode chambers are enclosed in plexiglass end plates and contain distinct Plexiglass electrode compartments. These compartments have mesh and solid steel anode and cathode electrodes, with an electrode active area of 176.71 cm2. The influence of various factors, such as voltage and electrolyte amount, on the production of hydrogen synthesis is examined. The study results demonstrate a maximum hydrogen production rate of 2.2 mg/min and a hydrogen production efficiency of 7.82%. The lab testing was carried out using experimental equipment to determine viability. The tests included 35-min runs that measured hydrogen generation under various parameters, such as applied voltage, electrolyte concentration, and pH levels. The ocean salt solutions of 0.5M, 1M, and 2M were initially prepared and evaluated for hydrogen generation. Each concentration is assessed at a voltage range of 4–15V, with matching solution pH values ranging from 2 to 7. Optimization studies were conducted to enhance the hydrogen production rate. The results indicate that hydrogen production rises proportionally with applied voltage and electrolyte concentration but falls with pH growth. Within the Design Expert software, the statistical methods for response surface analysis and optimization are utilized accordingly. • The paper develops an integrated three-compartment system for hydrogen production. • The paper investigates the system overall efficiencies for assessment. • It discusses how varying voltage and concentration affects hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the progress in applying the plasma-driven solution electrolysis (PDSE), which is also referred to as the contact glow-discharge electrolysis (CGDE) or plasma electrolysis, for hydrogen production. The physicochemical processes responsible for the formation of PDSE and effects occurring at the discharge electrode in the cathodic and anodic regimes of the PDSE operation are described. The influence of the PDSE process parameters, especially the discharge polarity, magnitude of the applied voltage, type and concentration of the typical electrolytic solutions (K2CO3, Na2CO3, KOH, NaOH, H2SO4), presence of organic additives (CH3OH, C2H5OH, CH3COOH), temperature of the electrolytic solution, the active length and immersion depth of the discharge electrode into the electrolytic solution, on the energy efficiency (%), energy yield (g(H2)/kWh), and hydrogen production rate (g(H2)/h) is presented and discussed. This analysis showed that in the cathodic regime of PDSE, the hydrogen production rate is 33.3 times higher than that in the anodic regime of PDSE, whereas the Faradaic and energy efficiencies are 11 and 12.5 times greater, respectively, than that in the anodic one. It also revealed the energy yield of hydrogen production in the cathodic regime of PDSE in the methanol–water mixture, as the electrolytic solution is 3.9 times greater compared to that of the alkaline electrolysis, 4.1 times greater compared to the polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis, 2.8 times greater compared to the solid oxide electrolysis, 1.75 times greater than that obtained in the microwave (2.45 GHz) plasma, and 5.8% greater compared to natural gas steam reforming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the problem of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) integration into power supply systems. A hybrid energy complex (HEC) based on PEMFCs and lithium iron phosphate batteries can be used as a reliable energy source. It is necessary to properly determine the PEMFC characteristics in order to develop a PEMFC-based HEC prototype and its control algorithms. This paper presents a 1 kW PEMFC's test results in steady and dynamic modes. The dependences of the average hydrogen consumption per 1 min, the volume of hydrogen for the generation of 1 kWh, the PEMFC efficiency on the load current were obtained and an analysis of these dependences for steady operation modes was performed. A range of load changes beyond which the efficiency of the PEMFC significantly decreased and it was recommended to switch to the joint operation of the PEMFCs and batteries (or only batteries) was established. Diagrams of the PEMFC output voltage during the dynamic changes in loads are presented and an analysis of transient response characteristics was carried out. The air supply fans were found to affect the performance of PEMFCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a fundamentally new design for a hydrogen generator. Hydrogen is released during the reaction of activated aluminum and water. Bismuth, tin, and calcium oxide were used as the activating additives. The hydrogen generator results in an Al oxidation reaction at a temperature of 100–350°C and a pressure of about 4 atm. An average hydrogen production rate of 30 mL/(s g) was achieved with a hydrogen yield of 95–99% of the theoretically possible value. In continuous generation mode, the average productivity of the hydrogen generator was ~1.5 kW (140 mL H2/s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interest in nonthermal discharge plasma has recently increased over the last few decades due to the ability to generate new radicals at atmospheric pressure. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the dissociation processes and reaction rates of various water vapour samples by dielectric barrier discharge plasma (DBD). The influence of water contamination and the presence of ammonia (NH 3) on hydrogen production from water vapour was investigated. A novel reaction rate expression was proposed to fit the plasma-water vapour experiment results. The hydrogen production and conversion rate of pure reverse osmosis (RO) water samples showed greater results than the contaminated water samples in all experiments at different tested bubbling temperatures. The higher conversion rate was obtained from RO water combined with 1%NH 3 at a bubbling temperature of 50 °C and was 1.17%. The water contamination influenced the generated DBD plasma micro discharges, consequently decreasing the electron collisions, leading to lower water vapour conversion into constituent elements H 2 and O 2. It was also found that the influence of ammonia on the water vapour decomposition was related to the NH 3 concentration. Moreover, the reaction rate showed good agreement with the experimental results. It was observed that the energy efficiencies were obtained at an operating temperature of 50 °C for pure RO, GTW, and CTW water samples enhanced by adding 1%NH 3 , for example, the RO energy efficiency value at a bubbling temperature of 50 °C increased from 0.133% to 1.15% because of more hydrogen was generated. It implies that the water vapour decomposition processes are influenced by the following parameters: input gas temperature, reaction time, plasma power, oven or reactor heating temperature, the separation method, sampling method, and sampling collection time. [Display omitted] • The hydrogen production from various water types by DBD plasma is investigated. • The presence of ammonia enhanced the hydrogen production of water vapour. • The water contamination has a negative effect on the plasma water decomposition. • The new rate equation showed a good agreement with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a critical analysis of a commercial pre-feasibility study for hydrogen generation from sewage sludge generated in a wastewater treatment plant sized Population Equivalent (PE) = 160,000 Three commercial offers based on hydrothermal carbonization, gasification/plasma gasification and gas separation, are analysed and validated in terms of chemical reactions and energy balance. The obtained hydrogen yield equals 10 kg H 2 /Mg sludge for Technology#2 and 5.5 kg H 2 /Mg sludge for Technology#3, while the process efficiency equals 31.4% and 41.2%, respectively. The offer for Technology#1 is inconsistent. The potential market can be built in the transport sector, based on buses (8–12/day) or locomotives (1–2/day) and complemented by passenger cars (16–22/day). Hydrogen surplus can be disposed into the natural gas network at a city gate station, with target concentration <2%. Alternatively, it is possible to install a fuel cell unit for on-site electricity generation of 1780 MWh/a sold to the public grid. • Commercial technologies of hydrogen production from sewage sludge were studied. • Technologies of hydrothermal carbonization and plasma gasification were validated. • 1 of 3 commercial offers was found inconsistent regarding thermodynamics. • Hydrogen yield was found 5.5–10 kg/Mg sludge. • Process energy efficiency was found 31.4%–41.2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work is devoted to the development of a thermal scheme for the conversion of a cogeneration power plant to threegeneration with the production of hydrogen as a new product. The purpose of the work is to assess the possibility and potential of hydrogen production from MSW at the existing thermal power plants of St. Petersburg. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to develop a methodology for selecting the site of an existing thermal power plant in order to integrate a hydrogen production complex by the MSW gasification method, as well as a methodology for estimating the amount of hydrogen that can potentially be obtained from a given amount of MSW. The research methods include simulation of the thermal circuit of a steam power plant in the United Cycle program. The paper proposes an algorithm for selecting the site of an operating thermal power plant for the integration of a complex for the production of hydrogen by the method of MSW gasification. The algorithm can be applied to any subjects of the Russian Federation, and its relevance is confirmed by strategic documents. Potential locations for the new TPP are being considered in the territories of TPP-21 and TPP-22, which have the necessary resources and good infrastructure. As a result of the study, the site of TPP-22 was selected as the most suitable for the placement of new facilities. A new thermal scheme of a threegeneration power plant has been developed, including a hydrogen generation unit by the MSW gasification method. This allows the production of hydrogen in parallel with the production of electricity and heat. The efficiency evaluation criterion is the fuel heat utilization factor (FHUF). Regardless of the hydrogen content in the generated synthesis gas, the integration of the synthesis gas cooler into the thermal circuit of the TPP leads to an increase in the FHUF and an additional energy effect. This scheme increases the efficiency of existing TPP plants, regardless of the morphological composition of municipal solid waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the amendment of sewage sludge ordinance in Germany, phosphorus must be recovered from sewage sludge in the future. Previously developed phosphorus recycling processes are not economically viable due to high material and energetic expenditures. Gasification of dried sewage sludge enables the energetic utilization of sewage sludge and provides the energy for phosphorus recovery. The present paper focuses on thermodynamic modeling of the gasification system to demonstrate the potential for holistic utilization of dried sewage sludge as phosphorus fertilizer. The results shows that an energy self‐sufficient, optimized process can be realized for recovery of phosphorus by gasification and subsequent thermo‐chemical treatment of dried sewage sludge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In the chemical looping hydrogen generation process, CoFe2O4 is regarded as one of the most excellent candidates for oxygen carriers (OCs). In this paper, the synergistic effect of Cu and Ce added to CoFe2O4 was studied. The doping of Cu and Ce improved the reactivity of CoFe2O4 with methane, and also increased the hydrogen yield and purity. The results indicated that the introduction of Cu and Ce facilitated the deep reduction of CoFe2O4, which was ascribed to the enhanced migration capacity of lattice oxygen. In addition, the addition of Cu inhibited the decomposition of CH4 and alleviated carbon deposition. The Cu4Ce4‐CoFe had a suitable Cu/Ce mass ratio, which was more conducive to the formation of excellent synergistic effect to enhance hydrogen production and weaken carbon deposition. The Cu4Ce4‐CoFe exhibited outstanding H2 yield (15.42 mmol·g−1) and H2 purity (99.13%). In addition, the reactivity of OC decreased to some extent with the cyclic experiment when the Cu4Ce4‐CoFe was used, the H2 yield decreased from ∼15.21 to ∼10.86 mmol·g−1 over 10 experimental cycles. In conclusion, Cu and Ce co‐doping is an effective strategy to obtain OCs with preeminent hydrogen production performance and anti‐carbon deposition performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4-chlorophenol (4-CP) could be rapidly mineralized by using Fenton reaction. However, massive iron sludge will be generated because of the excessive consumption of iron salt and poor recycling of FeIII back to FeII. In this paper, by introducing hydrogen gas and solid catalyst Pd/NH2-MIL-101(Cr) to classic Fenton reactor, the novel system named MHACF-NH2-MIL-101(Cr) was constructed. Much less FeII was needed in this system because the hydrogen could significantly accelerate the regeneration of FeII. The catalyst improved the utilization of H2. The degradation reaction of 4-CP could be driven by using only trace amount of FeII. It could be rapidly degraded by the hydroxyl radical detected by the 4-Hydroxy-benzoicacid which is the oxidative product of benzoic acid and hydroxyl radical. The effects of dosage of ferrous salt, H2O2 and catalyst, H2 flow, Pd content, and initial pH of and concentration of 4-CP aqueous solution were investigated. The robustness and morphology changes of this catalytic material were also systematically analysed. By clarifying the role of this solid MOFs material in this hydrogen-mediated Fenton reaction system, it will provide a new direction for the research and development of advanced oxidation processes with high efficiency and low sludge generation in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadvertent generation of hydrogen from ambient temperature metal‐water chemical and electrochemical reactions have been responsible for a surprising number of hydrogen explosions. This paper describes three sets of incidents involving different metals in applications that are normally considered free of explosion hazards. The first set of incidents involves wet alkaline incinerator ash with an aluminum content of at least 2%. The second set of incidents involves copper conductor electrochemical reactions in subsea electrical cable. The third set involves electrochemical corrosion reactions in galvanized dry sprinkler pipe. In all three applications, test data are discussed to elucidate the specific reactions and potential preventive and mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adjusting the interlayer structure of carbon nitride is expected to adjust its physicochemical properties, thereby enhancing photocatalytic activity. In this paper, alkaline metal ion-intercalated carbon nitride was prepared by molten salt co-pyrolysis. Alkali metal ions acted as mediators to provide a new migration path for the photogenerated electrons of g-C3N4. The intercalation of K+ and Na+ reduced the bandgap value of carbon nitride, expanded the visible light absorption range, and promoted the separation and migration of charge carriers. As a result, the hydrogen production rate of DCN1 reached 500 μmol g−1 h−1, which was 10 times than that of pristine g-C3N4. Experimental and theoretical methods were used to explain the improvement of photocatalytic efficiency after K+ and Na+ were intercalated into the interlayer of g-C3N4. Our work provided a new idea for the design of high-efficiency hydrogen evolution photocatalysts via intercalation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioethanol is a renewable energy source carrier mainly produced from the biomass fermentation process. Reforming of bioethanol for hydrogen production is the most promising method from the renewable energy source. Production of hydrogen from ethanol reforming process is not only environmentally friendly, but also it produces greater opportunities for use of renewable energy source, which are available and affect the catalytic activity of the process. This paper reviewed the various reforming processes and associated noble and non-noble catalysts and supporting layers for the reforming process. Among that, electrochemical reforming of bioethanol is found to be cost-effective, and hydrogen production is also found to be of high purity. Hydrogen production from ethanol through various reforming processes is still in the research for better hydrogen production. Hydrogen production through the process of reforming can be widely used for fuel cell operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezocatalytic hydrogen evolution has emerged as a promising field for the collection and utilization of mechanical energy, as well as for generating sustainable energy throughout the day. Hexagonal CdS, an established semiconductor photocatalyst, has been widely investigated for its ability to split water into H2. However, its piezocatalytic performance has received less attention, and the relationship between its structure and piezocatalytic activity remains unclear. In this study, we prepared 3D ultrathin CdS nanoflowers with high voltage electrical response and low impedance. In pure water, without the use of any cocatalyst, CdS exhibited a piezoelectric catalytic hydrogen production rate of 1.46 mmol h−1 g−1, which was three times higher than that of CdS nanospheres (0.46 mmol h−1 g−1). Furthermore, the value-added oxidation product H2O2 was produced during the process of piezoelectric catalysis. These findings provide new insights for the design of high-efficiency piezoelectric catalytic hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has the potential to be considered almost the cleanest fuel of the future and a key contributor toward a low-carbon economy. This latter can be achieved through the production of green hydrogen by electrolysis using renewable energy sources. This work investigates the production of green hydrogen using solar PV-electrolysis configuration. Three different photovoltaic technologies including monocrystalline (m-Si), polycrystalline (p-Si) and amorphous (a-Si) have been used in this study. The aim of this paper is to identify the most suitable PV system for hydrogen production in mountain temperate climate conditions. Therefore, a performance assessment of the aforementioned PV systems has been conducted using data collected for an operation period of 6 years. In addition, the rate of degradation of each technology has been determined, and its effects on hydrogen generation and cost have been examined. The obtained results have shown that p-Si technology has the lowest degradation rate of (0.28%), followed by m-Si (0.41%), and a-Si (0.75%). In addition, key metrics including the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) as well as the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) have been calculated. The findings indicate that the lowest LCOE and LCOH are achieved by p-Si (0.021 $/kWh, 3.59 $/kg), followed by a-Si technology (0.027 $/kWh, 4 $/kg), and m-Si (0.032 $/kWh, 4.34 $/kg). Therefore, the results demonstrates that p-Si is the most cost-effective and favorable technology for hydrogen production in the considered temperate climate. • Hydrogen production of 3 PV technologies under mountain climate of Morocco. • Performance evaluation under real weather conditions over an operation period of 6 years. • PV Degradation impact on hydrogen production. • The most cost-effective PV system for hydrogen production is p-Si. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen supplying to industrial users is currently the major hydrogen business worldwide and the demand for hydrogen is almost entirely supplied from fossil fuels. In the last years a widespread interest on hydrogen has grown as energy vector for the decarbonization of multiple sectors, including industry, transport and buildings. Nevertheless, the impact of natural gas and other fossil fuels substitution with hydrogen is highly affected by the mix of different technologies and energy sources applied for hydrogen generation. The paper aims to investigate current CO 2 emissions related with hydrogen generation in Australia and Italy by means of PEM and alkaline technologies; and to evaluate the potential impact considering cell characteristics variation and 3 scenarios based on energy mix. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the critical parameters. Based on experimental data, the energy consumption for hydrogen production using PEM technology is more sensitive to cell voltage compared to current density, which indicates the importance of cell manufacturing and electrolyte resistance. In addition, by performing sensitivity analysis regarding energy sources scenarios it is found that carbon dioxide emission in Australia is more sensitive to renewable energy sources rather than Italy. [Display omitted] • Importance of manufacturing and electrolyte resistance because of high PEM energy consumption sensitivity to cell voltage. • Predicted emission in 2030 is 5–10 kg CO 2 using PEM/alkaline technology in Italy. • 18% reduction of national electricity grid CO 2 emission in Australia is predicted. (In 2030 in comparison to 2019). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimation of hydrogen production rate and the total amount hydrogen during any reaction process require an accurate and concise dynamic model to describe the variation of hydrogen production rate with reaction time. There must be two comprehensive features of such model, the first one is that the hydrogen production rate calculated by this model is zero at the initial time is zero and the second one is that the integration of this model over time result in an explicit function. In this paper, we present a comprehensive model which meets above two requirements via amendments to the shifted logistic model. The model is validated against measured results through comparison of 25 experimental and theoretical hydrogen production rate. The experimentally validated model is used to calculate the total amount hydrogen during each reaction process. The impact of some experimental conditions on the total hydrogen production was mathematically explained for the first time, and this result reveal the excellent predictive ability of framework suggested in this paper. In addition, that is for an experimental condition history, predictions are achieved by developing a set of "secondary models" that describe some experimental conditions dependence of the "primary models" parameters. The method to obtain the parameters in "secondary models" described in this paper indicated that another major departure from the conventional models is the notion that the "secondary models" do not need to follow any preconceived formula and that they can be derived solely from the observed growth patterns. The presented framework can help the hydrogen production industry. • Dynamic model to calculate hydrogen production rate by time was provided. • The total amount hydrogen can be estimated via this concise dynamic model. • The impact of experimental conditions on hydrogen production was explained. • A set of "secondary models" of parameters were developed. • Very good application results were achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing S-scheme heterojunction is regarded as an effective mode to motivate excellent photocatalytic performance for hydrogen generation. This paper prepares NiTiO 3 /CdIn 2 S 4 S-scheme heterostructure photocatalyst by hydrothermal method successfully. In the experiments, 20 wt% NiTiO 3 /CdIn 2 S 4 has the supreme photocatalytic activity with the H 2 generation rate of 5168.6 μmol g−1 h−1 and the apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 5.14% at 420 nm, approximately 7.7 times of pure CdIn 2 S 4. Through the phase characterization analyses, NiTiO 3 and CdIn 2 S 4 successfully compounded, with NiTiO 3 nanoparticles wrapping around CdIn 2 S 4 microspheres to form the irregular clumps. Further analyses of performance reveal the larger specific surface area, wider absorption region, faster charge transfer rate, outstanding photostability and recyclability for 20 wt% NiTiO 3 /CdIn 2 S 4 , all of which play the significant role in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity. Finally, a plausible S-scheme photocatalytic mechanism for NiTiO 3 /CdIn 2 S 4 is proposed. This study provides a novel and effective S-scheme photocatalyst for hydrogen generation from water splitting. • 0D/3D NiTiO 3 /CdIn 2 S 4 composite photocatalyst is prepared via hydrothermal method. • S-scheme heterojunction at the interface of NiTiO 3 and CdIn 2 S 4 is constructed. • NiTiO 3 /CdIn 2 S 4 exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance for hydrogen generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically precise Ni 6 (SC 2 H 4 Ph) 12 nanoclusters (Ni 6 NCs) supported on g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets were constructed to enhance the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performances. [Display omitted] Much effort has been devoted to improving the photocatalytic capacity of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4). In this paper, we reported the successful synthesis of a hybrid photocatalyst with superb photocatalytic hydrogen production activity through decorating atomically precise Ni 6 (SC 2 H 4 Ph) 12 nanoclusters on g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets (labeled as Ni 6 /g-C 3 N 4) at room temperature. Zeta potential experiments demonstrated that the electrostatic interaction between Ni 6 and g-C 3 N 4 led to the formation of Ni 6 /g-C 3 N 4. The photocatalytic measurements revealed that the 5 %-Ni 6 /g-C 3 N 4 prepared with the original mass ratio of m(Ni 6)/m(g-C 3 N 4) = 1/20 exhibited the strongest hydrogen production activity. In the system with triethanolamine (TEOA) as the sacrifice agent, the visible-light hydrogen production rate reached up to 5.87 mmol h−1 g−1, approximately 290 times higher than that of pure g-C 3 N 4 (0.02 mmol h−1 g−1). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations testified that the above significant enhancement of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution of the hybrid photocatalyst arose from the photogenerated electrons transfer from Ni 6 to g-C 3 N 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing heterostructures with efficient charge separation is a promising route to improve photocatalytic hydrogen production. In this paper, MoS x /CdS/KTaO 3 ternary heterojunction photocatalysts were successfully prepared by a two-step method (hydrothermal method and photo deposition method), which improved the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity. The results show that the rate of hydrogen evolution for the optimized photocatalyst is 2.697 mmol g−1·h−1under visible light, which is 17 times and 2.6 times of the original CdS (0.159 mmol g−1 h−1) and the optimal CdS/KTaO 3 (1.033 mmol g−1 h−1), respectively, and the ternary photocatalyst also shows good stability. The improvement on photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance can be attributed to the formation of heterojunction between the prepared composite materials, which effectively promotes the separation and migration of photo-generated carriers. Amorphous MoS x acts as an electron trap to capture photogenerated electrons, providing active sites for proton reduction. This provides beneficial enlightenment for hydrogen production by efficiently utilizing sunlight to decompose water. • Successful preparation of a novel MoS x cocatalyst-modified CdS/KTO heterostructure without noble metals. • Composite catalysts exhibit excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance. • The hydrogen production rate of the composite is 17 times and 2.6 times that of pure CdS and CdS/KTO. • Amorphous MoS x acts as a trap to capture photogenerated electrons, providing active sites for proton reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is called to be one of the most important energy vectors in future energy systems. Nowadays, its use in the industry sector is prominent, finding multiple applications in fertilizer production or oil refining. In this sense, some industry sectors demand a considerable amount of hydrogen for their processes. In many cases, hydrogen must be purchased externally, which supposes a challenge due to hydrogen transportation is costly and few efficient. In this context, local hydrogen production through mature electrolysis technology may suppose an attractive alternative in industrial parks. This paper focuses on this topic, in particular, a risk-averse electrolyser sizing methodology is developed. The new approach accounts for uncertainties in electricity prices as well as local renewable generation and demand through an original hybrid stochastic-robust model. The developed uncertainty modelling is integrated into a novel four-level optimization framework, whose main result is the optimal electrolyser rated power. To efficiently attain the solution, an original hybridization of the Benders' decomposition and the Column and Constraint Generation Algorithm is proposed. The developed methodology results efficient in an illustrative three-industry park, showing that installing local hydrogen generation may reduce the amount of hydrogen purchased externally (by 38%) and project costs by 2.5%. Furthermore, increasing the robustness level leads to increase the project cost by 8%, while assuming unfavourable realization of uncertainties. Moreover, the developed tool is further validated in larger parks, involving an increasing number of industries, showing that the proposed methodology scales well with the size of the park. • A novel risk-averse methodology for electrolyser sizing is developed. • The new tool is conceived for industrial parks but adaptable to other systems. • Project costs can be reduced by 2.5% when local hydrogen production is enabled. • The robustness level impacts incrementing the total expenditures by 8%. • The developed methodology scales well with the size of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the requirement of the utilization of energy resources in a way that is both effective and efficient, solid oxide fuel cells have become a notable preference due to their advantages such as high efficiency and use with different fuels. In addition, the integration of these systems in the production of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia are important for a sustainable future to combat environmental problems. For this reason, the main intention of this paper is to introduce a new plant combining the different systems that use the solid oxide fuel cell for a cleaner and sustainable future. In the modeled work, a solid oxide fuel cell, a gas turbine, an organic Rankine cycle, a Kalina cycle with ejector, a hydrogen generation and storage process, a wood steaming plant, and an ammonia production system is integrated, to generate useful products. Detailed thermodynamic modeling is performed through energy and exergy methods, to determine the performance of the advised system and subsystem. Moreover, energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and exergy destruction analyses methods are applied to each sub-plant and the whole system separately. In addition, parametric research is carried out to examine the effects of modifying key parameters on the plant's and subsystems' performance. Looking at the analysis results, the amount of the hydrogen and ammonia generation capacities of this work are 0.0085 kgs−1and 0.2023 kgs−1, respectively. In addition, the modeled power plant produces a power rate of about 20,180 kW. As a result, this proposed study is calculated to have 61.04% energy efficiency, and 57.13% exergy efficiency. • A novel combined plant with SOFC is developed for hydrogen and ammonia generation. • Modeled system is investigated thermodynamically with energy and exergy efficiencies. • Parametric analysis is conducted to determine the how the effect of each parameter on the system's performance. • Overall energy and exergy efficiency of this modeled plant is 61.04% and 57.13%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a research hotspot, 2D-MoS2 has been regarded as a low-cost substitute for platinum, and has fascinated researchers worldwide. Two crystalline phases of MoS2, i.e. the metallic octahedral 1T phase and semiconducting trigonal prismatic 2H phase, have been extensively analysed. In comparison to 2H-MoS2, the 1T phase exhibits enhanced and unique physicochemical properties. Designing a structure with two-dimensional mixed-phase MoS2, i.e. 1T/2H-MoS2 nanosheets, via phase engineering for effective charge separation and migration has received growing interest in the field of photocatalytic hydrogen generation. In this study, by varying the wt% of ammonium bicarbonate via a facile hydrothermal technique, a series of 1T/2H-MoS2 nanosheets have been fabricated. The presence of the corresponding elements, the electronic environment, phase purity, morphology and phase distinction were confirmed by Raman, XPS, XRD and HRTEM analyses. Additionally, the impedance data and the photocurrent density of the photocatalysts verify the efficient charge separation and transfer phenomenon. In accordance with the electrochemical measurements, the developed mixed-phase MoS2 nanosheets exhibit a six times greater current density than 2H-MoS2. Furthermore, the highest response of photocatalytic hydrogen production is observed with the photocatalyst with 79% 1T phase, which is about 17 times greater than that of pristine 2H-MoS2 due to the enrichment of active sites on both the edges and basal plane as well as the enhanced electronic conductivity due to the 1T phase. This study indicates that with the construction of a heterophase, i.e. 1T/2H-MoS2 nanosheets, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution capability can be boosted, providing new insights regarding these materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a solar power-based combined plant for power, hydrogen, methane, ammonia and urea production is proposed. A parabolic trough collector is utilized for the system prime mover. Moreover, steam Rankine cycle, organic Rankine cycle, hydrogen production and compression subsystem, ammonia, methane and urea production units, single-effect absorption cooling unit, and freshwater production plant are integrated together to develop the present system for better system performance and cost-effectiveness and reduced environmental impact. In order to analyze and evaluate the proposed multigeneration plant, thermodynamic, parametric and economic studies are performed. According to the assessment results, it is found that energetic and exergetic efficiencies of the present multigeneration plant are 66.12% and 61.56%, respectively. The comparisons of the subsystem and overall plant efficiencies show that the highest energetic and energetic efficiencies belong to freshwater production plant by 79.24% and 75.62%, respectively. In addition, the present parametric analysis indicates that an increase in the reference temperature, solar radiation intensity and working pressure of the solar process has a positive effect on the plant's performance. The cost analysis reveals that as the solar radiation intensity and the working pressure of the solar process increase, the hydrogen generation cost decreases. Furthermore, the hydrogen generation cost is achieved to be 1.94 $/kgH 2 at 650 W/m2 of the solar radiation intensity, with other parameters remaining constant. [Display omitted] • A new solar energy-based multigenerational system is suggested. • A comprehensive thermodynamic modeling is proposed for more effective design. • Energy and exergy performances are computed as 66.12% and 61.56%, respectively. • Hydrogen production cost is calculated as 1.94 $/kgH 2. • The effect of working parameters on the system effectiveness are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dual-phase transition metal nitride (TMN) based Co4N- WNx system has been fabricated using nitridation of CoWO4. The interface between centrosymmetric Co4N and non-centrosymmetric WNx promotes charge carrier separation. This system also shows piezoelectric behavior. The piezoelectric property has been proved using piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM) measurements. In addition, modulating the noncentrosymmetric structure of Co4N- WNx allows a hydrogen production rate of about 262.7 μmol g-1 h-1 in pure water. We also show that the piezocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency is satisfactory. Co4N- WNx can also help achieve simultaneous piezocatalytic hydrogen production and RhB degradation. This work provides a novel strategy for designing efficient piezocatalytic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]