First comparison of particulate sampling and quantification from a hydrogen refueling station and fuel cell electric vehicle

Hydrogen fuel is foreseen as part of the energy transition towards green future. As part of hydrogen fuel quality, particulate mass fraction is essential to be monitored and maintained at a low level (<1 mg/kg). Particulate sampling has only been realised from the nozzle of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) in a limited occasion. Evaluating the presence of particulate within the fuel tank of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) provides an alternative approach to monitor particulate mass fraction and gain insights especially to link FCEV performance with particulate mass fraction. Within this activity, particulate mass determination from FCEV was compared with reference measurement of particulate from HRS. Two sampling systems, HYDAC and NPL low pressure particulate sampling system, measured particulate mass fraction in hydrogen fuel in almost repeatable condition before refueling of the FCEV and during the venting of the FCEV fuel tank. Both hydrogen fuel samples have particulate concentration below calculated limit of detection (LOD). This study provided the 1st agreement between the two strategies. Furthermore, realisation of these sampling methodologies reveals challenges for the standardization of particulate measurement.