Hydrogen carriers for hydrogen transport and storage (hydrogen Storage): A review

Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in energy storage and transportation, capable of being distributed through pipelines or transported in batches via ships, trucks, railways, or airplanes. Regardless of the method, efficient storage is essential, with pipelines also functioning as pressure storage systems. Despite hydrogen's high energy content per unit mass, renewability, and environmental benefits, two key challenges limit its widespread use as a primary fuel. First, hydrogen acts solely as an energy carrier and must be produced, often from water, requiring significant economic investment—challenging in a world accustomed to low-cost energy. Second, its low critical temperature (33 K) makes it difficult to store efficiently at ambient conditions, which complicates mobile and stationary applications where high energy density is crucial for performance and competitiveness.

To address these challenges, multiple storage technologies have emerged, including high-pressure tanks, liquid hydrogen storage, and metal hydride systems. Alternative storage methods, such as liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs), activated carbon, and Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs), are also under exploration. These technologies are evaluated based on their physical and chemical properties, technological readiness, and ongoing research efforts.

This study aims to compare these storage options by assessing key metrics like energy density, efficiency, and compliance with international benchmarks, particularly those set by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Through a detailed analysis, the goal is to identify the most suitable hydrogen storage solutions for various applications, balancing performance with cost-effectiveness.

In conclusion, this review offers a comprehensive analysis of hydrogen storage technologies, with a focus on mobile applications. It highlights existing solutions, explores potential advancements, and provides comparative insights to guide future developments in this essential area of hydrogen energy deployment.