A Thermodynamic Analysis of Compressing Hydrogen for Storage

Storing hydrogen gas under pressure to provide an energy source for fuel cells or internal combustion engines is a real issue that must be addressed. Diatomic hydrogen does not occur naturally and therefore, must be made through electrolysis, methane reforming or some other process. From the production of pure hydrogen to the final end user, the entire cycle must be considered. Once formed, hydrogen will need to be compressed to a storage container. A hydrogen based transportation system will be both an economic and engineering challenge.