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  • Hydrogen vs Electric in Chemical Engineering

Hydrogen vs Electric in Chemical Engineering

On the pros and cons of hydrogen and electricity in chemical industry
In recent times, the field of chemical industry, the choice of energy, hydrogen and electricity are the key way, disputes have arisen, and each holds the same opinion. Let's discuss the pros and cons of the two today to clarify their uses.

First, the energy density is better than that of
Hydrogen, the energy density is outstanding. The energy stored per unit mass far exceeds that of lithium batteries. Taking a vehicle as an example, if a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle carries an appropriate amount of hydrogen, the range is considerable, and the long-distance travel is safe, without fear of the embarrassment of rapid power exhaustion. The energy storage of electricity is limited by the density of lithium batteries, and the battery life is often constrained. When traveling far, there are many inconveniences, and it is necessary to frequently find charging piles, which is time-consuming and laborious.

Second, the difference in charging time
The filling of hydrogen is short and convenient. In a few moments, you can start at full capacity. On the other hand, electric power, even if it is fast charging, it takes tens of minutes, let alone slow charging, which takes a few hours at every turn. In a fast-paced world, time is precious, and the charging advantages of hydrogen are self-evident.

Third, the difficulty of production and storage
However, the production of hydrogen is not easy. The method of water and electricity solution, although pure hydrogen is available, consumes a lot of electricity and costs a lot; fossil fuel reforming, although it can produce hydrogen, is associated with carbon emissions, which is contrary to the purpose of environmental protection. Moreover, the storage of hydrogen requires high pressure or low temperature, the technology is complicated, the equipment is expensive, and there are also safety concerns. Electricity is not the case, its sources are wide, thermal power, hydropower, wind power, photovoltaics, etc., can be used as sources, stored in lithium power, etc., the technology is mature, safe and easy to control.

Fourth, the difference in environmental impact
If hydrogen is derived from renewable energy electrolysis, it will have zero carbon emissions when used, which is environmentally friendly and fits the general trend of green development. Electricity generation, if more rely on thermal power, carbon emissions will be high; however, if the proportion of green electricity is increased, carbon emissions can also be reduced. Therefore, in the long run, both have the possibility of going green, but the paths are different.

5. Differences in application scenarios
Chemical process, where high temperature reactions occur, hydrogen can be used as a reducing agent or as a fuel to provide high temperature energy. Its unique chemistry is irreplaceable. Electricity is used in the chemical industry, and it is mostly applied to precision-controlled equipment, such as automated meters, electronically controlled valves, etc., with its flexible control and high accuracy.

To sum up, hydrogen and electricity have their own advantages in the chemical industry. Hydrogen is better than energy density and charging speed, but it is difficult to produce and store; electricity is better than wide sources and easy to store, while energy density and battery life are not enough. Chemical practitioners should take measures according to the situation, weigh the considerations, and make the best use of the two to promote the progress of the chemical industry and seek the future of green development.