A priori, even without being a specialist in this field, everyone knows hydrogen. It gas which today appears as a alternative to electric cars for the purpose of carbon neutrality from parking. the only problem hydrogen asks tanks enough stable and strong store this source of energy. In fact, hydrogen is stored as a gas in tanks that must withstand pressure 700 bar. For comparison, the pressure in a tire there is a car 2.5 bar.

But German researchers from Fraunhofer Institute, Dresdenhave developed a revolutionary and more versatile solution for hydrogen storage.

Hydrogen… in the paste

From the side it looks like this Toothpaste or on modeling clay. It’s actually real energy paste. In this form, there would be more hydrogen resistant and above all easier pack and transport. Hydrogen paste can really be stored in tubes or some banks. And that, during many years. A significant advantage.

In addition,economic aspect is no exception. We remind you hydrogen station expenses – at the moment – from one to two million euros. The dough is visible here cheaper.

Specifically, to get such a paste, German scientists use magnesium to fix the hydrogen. Magnesium is one of the most common elements on Earth and an easily available raw material.

Hydrolysis operation

Hydrogen paste releases its energy when it in contact with water. This is called a reaction hydrolysis. For information, it is said that the energy density corresponds about ten times capacity of lithium-ion batteries. The fuel cell then produces electricity.

To feed the vehicle, the paste is packaged in a cartridge, as well as a possible tank specially designed for the car. When driving, then the paste is squeezed out of the cartridge in the required amount and water is added. L’hydrogen is created only when mixing the mixture.

According to researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute, the energy density of the paste is much higher than when hydrogen is stored in gaseous form. Even if compared with batteries, there is energy paste about ten times more efficient. »

In other words, if we were to use this hydrogen paste as fuel, this “powerpaste” process could be used to power of small vehicles i love scooters, motorcycles Where townsfolk. Another application example: pasta can provide the energy needed for a refrigerator, heating or stove while camping.

Soon?

If the process leaves us dreaming and it seems only benefitsit is clear that it is hydrogen paste not yet relevant. So far ours German colleagues from Auto Bild report that only a small factory intended for the production of this paste is being built in Braunschweig. The latter must produce about four tons per year for test vehicles and research purposes.

On the other hand, this project also suffers from raw material supply and cost issues. In this regard, the start of production will probably be delayed in the summer of 2023.