Green hydrogen: Decarbonization in mining - Review

Abstract

In mining, the system of operation relies on equipment that consumes large amounts of energy. In mine operations, diesel-powered equipment is widely used due to its flexibility, loading capacity, and adaptability to various terrain conditions. However, it presents high diesel oil consumption and high emission rate of greenhouse gasses, mainly carbon monoxide. This paper offers a comprehensive view of the hydrogen effect on diesel engines in the search for renewable energy alternatives that are in tune with the reduction of the environmental impact arising from the use of petroleum-derived fuels. This article presents the energy consumption of diesel-powered trucks in the mining industry. It is followed by a discussion of diesel fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. It adds to the discussion of the technologies for producing hydrogen, the advantages of using them in controlled quantities, and the challenges in production, storage as well as the supply costs. Highlight the carbon-free “green hydrogen”, which presents itself as a promising alternative in its operations to decarbonize the mines, as open pit or underground.