INTRODUCTION 13: Blue Hydrogen

Overview 

Did you know that over 95% of the hydrogen produced today is generated from fossil-fuel based feedstock? The predominant method for hydrogen production in the U.S. is steam methane reforming (SMR) which accounts for more than half of the hydrogen production. Natural gas can be used as a feedstock for three 'unofficial' color ratings: gray hydrogen (SMR with no carbon capture), blue hydrogen (SMR with CCUS or gasification with CCUS), and turquoise hydrogen (methane pyrolysis). The following table published by H2Tech provides the color spectrum for hydrogen.

Reference: H2Tech Magazine

In this module, we will go more in depth on blue hydrogen, which is gray hydrogen when coupled with carbon capture of both the process gas and the flue gas streams. Blue hydrogen is seen as a short term solution that easily scales up and can be quickly implemented.

 

Module Objectives

In this module, the activities, content, and assignments will guide your learning process to ensure you can:

  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of low-carbon energy technologies, particularly blue hydrogen
  • Critically review and discuss scientific literature
  • Apply critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills to environmental sustainability problems
  • Employ simulation and prediction tools, methods, and techniques for the elaboration of Life Cycle Assessments
  • Communicate Life Cycle Assessment results to a wide audience using appropriate technical language, formatting, and writing conventions
  • Exhibit global awareness of environmental sustainability issues and identify trends and opportunities as it relates to the future of the Natural Gas industry

 

calendar-month_black.pngModule To-Do List

Here's everything you need to do and remember for this module:

  • Download the assigned reading in the Resources section
  • Annotate the assigned reading in Perusall
  • Come prepared to the Live Session to discuss the reading