Hydrogen Safety Issues

Abstract

Hydrogen energy is a promising source to meet the global energy demand. The adoption of hydrogen energy by society is possible with the installation and operation of reliable hydrogen infrastructures. Hydrogen has some risk factors inherently. The wide flammability range in air, high flame speed, and low minimum ignition energy cause fire and explosion accidents. In addition, hydrogen embrittlement in metals leads to ruptures in equipment and the formation of leakages. Hydrogen refueling stations, commercial hydrogen facilities, nuclear power plants, and laboratories are places that are open to accidents caused by hydrogen equipment failure or wrong human interventions. Determination of standards for safe operation and making quantitative risk analysis assessments help eliminate accidents or mitigate their damaging consequences. This chapter aims to raise awareness about the safety of hydrogen energy by addressing the risks of hydrogen, past accidents, the lessons learned, and the applicable precautions and recommendations against hazards.