Fraunhofer Develops High-Tech Sensors for Safe Hydrogen Infrastructure
Key Ideas
- Fraunhofer researchers in Freiburg have created advanced sensor systems to detect hydrogen leaks in pipelines and tanks, ensuring safety in the chemical industry and hydrogen transportation.
- The innovative sensor technologies include ultrasonic sensors, laser spectrometers, and Raman spectroscopy, capable of detecting hydrogen and even subtle contaminations in various applications.
- These versatile sensors are part of the TransHyDE hydrogen flagship project, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, showcasing Germany's commitment to safe hydrogen infrastructure.
- The development of these high-tech sensors not only enhances safety in handling hydrogen but also paves the way for the future expansion of the hydrogen economy, offering versatile solutions for industry and energy sectors.
Fraunhofer Institute for Physical Measurement Techniques IPM in Freiburg, Germany, has made significant strides in ensuring the safety of hydrogen infrastructure with the development of cutting-edge sensor systems. These sensors, part of the TransHyDE project supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, aim to address the critical need for detecting hydrogen leaks in pipelines, tanks, and connectors. The researchers have designed three different sensor systems, including an ultrasonic sensor utilizing the photoacoustic effect, a laser spectrometer for ammonia detection, and a Raman spectroscopy system for selective hydrogen detection.
The ultrasonic sensor system developed by Fraunhofer IPM uses light to create resonant sound waves in the gas, enabling the detection of hydrogen leaks with high precision. This technology not only identifies hydrogen but also detects contaminations in the gas, ensuring the purity required for sensitive applications like fuel cells. The laser spectrometer is designed to detect ammonia, offering a safe alternative for hydrogen transportation. Additionally, the Raman spectroscopy system provides a portable solution for quantifying hydrogen, particularly useful in the energy sector.
The versatility of these sensor systems allows for adaptation to various scenarios, providing a comprehensive safety net for hydrogen-related projects. Fraunhofer experts offer guidance to industry stakeholders and energy suppliers on implementing these advanced sensors for enhanced safety measures. Dr. Carolin Pannek, leading the subproject on safe infrastructure, emphasizes the importance of these technologies in supporting the growth of the hydrogen economy. With Germany's emphasis on innovation and safety in hydrogen applications, the Fraunhofer research contributes significantly to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions.
Topics
Projects
Innovation
Energy Sector
Technology Development
Research Project
Chemical Industry
Sensor Technology
Safety Equipment
Infrastructural Safety
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