Innovative Technology for Safe Hydrogen Use in Europe's Green Transition
Key Ideas
- A research team in Jena, Germany, is developing an innovative 3D endoscope with explosion protection to safely examine hydrogen tanks and pipes, minimizing explosion risks.
- The project, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research with three million euros, aims to create a spark-free measuring head using miniature optics and multi-core fibers.
- Utilizing structured lighting and advanced imaging, the endoscope can visualize details as small as 100 micrometers in real time without risking explosions, advancing green hydrogen technology.
Europe aims to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 through initiatives like the 'European Green Deal.' To achieve this, technologies utilizing green hydrogen are crucial in replacing fossil fuels. However, the use of hydrogen poses risks due to its explosive nature when combined with air. Dr. Christian Franke from the University of Jena highlights these dangers. In response, a new project called '3D measurement using explosion-protected endoscopy with structured lighting' (3D-Vens) has been launched. Led by Dr. Franke and Dr. Andreas Stark, the project focuses on developing safe measurement technology for hydrogen infrastructure maintenance. The research, supported by a three-million-euro grant over three years, involves collaborating with the Fraunhofer Institute and commercial enterprises. The innovative 3D endoscope being developed will feature explosion protection and exclude electronic components in the measuring head to prevent sparks. By utilizing multi-core fibers and structured illumination, the endoscope ensures high-resolution imaging of objects without explosion risks. This technology advancement is a significant step towards enhancing the safety and efficiency of utilizing green hydrogen in Europe's transition to a sustainable energy future.