R&D Focus
Securing the Hydrogen Revolution with Cutting-Edge Monitoring Innovations
At the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in 2023, over 30 countries united to launch the COP28 Declaration of Intent. This agreement focuses on the mutual recognition of certification schemes for renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and its derivatives, highlighting the growing global consensus on hydrogen’s crucial role in energy supply and decarbonization.
In Taiwan, hydrogen is expected to contribute approximately 9% to 12% of power generation by 2050, according to the nation’s 2021 publication, Taiwan’s Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in 2050. Recognizing the importance of hydrogen in both national and global decarbonization efforts, ITRI is actively developing hydrogen applications to reduce Taiwan’s reliance on fossil fuels and foster more sustainable energy usage.
However, safety remains a primary concern when it comes to hydrogen due to its high flammability. This necessitates rigorous attention during its production, transportation, and storage. Addressing these safety challenges, ITRI has developed a comprehensive hydrogen equipment monitoring system that incorporates real-time fault diagnosis and predictive maintenance technologies. Unlike conventional systems that only issue alerts after a leak is detected, this solution provides proactive and immediate warnings when equipment malfunctions or when hydrogen concentrations reach as low as 0.004%—one-thousandth of the lower explosive limit.
In addition to this monitoring system, ITRI has introduced another solution that detects hydrogen leaks using color-changing films and AI-powered imaging analysis. Trained on extensive image and data models, this system can pinpoint leakage locations within one minute, even when the leakage rate is below 1 liter per minute. Utilizing low-cost, hydrogen-sensitive films that require no power or communication cables, the system allows for widespread installation across facilities. For instance, a single device can monitor 150 to 180 films within a factory, greatly enhancing installation efficiency while reducing costs. Moreover, the entire system can integrate seamlessly with existing surveillance systems, providing effective monitoring without the need for additional equipment.
The low-cost, power-free films allow for extensive coverage, with a single device able to monitor up to 180 films.
“Hydrogen’s potential to replace fossil fuels and contribute to a net-zero emissions future is immense,” remarked Yu-Ping Lan, General Director of ITRI’s Center for Measurement Standards. “To accelerate this transition, minimizing potential risks is critical. We hope that ITRI’s monitoring and measurement technologies will bolster public confidence in hydrogen energy, ultimately driving the growth of this renewable energy source. As we continue to innovate and refine our solutions, we are committed to making hydrogen a safer and more viable option for a sustainable future,” said Lan.