Vesinikkütust

Vesinikkütus, also known as hydrogen fuel, is a fuel that derives its energy content from the chemical bonds of hydrogen. Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, but it is rarely found in its pure diatomic form (H2) on Earth. Instead, it is typically bound to other elements, such as oxygen in water or carbon in hydrocarbons.

The primary method for producing hydrogen fuel involves splitting water molecules through a process called electrolysis. This can be achieved using electricity. If the electricity used for electrolysis is generated from renewable sources like solar or wind power, the resulting hydrogen is termed "green hydrogen," which is considered a clean fuel. Alternatively, hydrogen can be produced from fossil fuels, such as natural gas, through a process called steam methane reforming. This method, however, releases carbon dioxide, making it a less environmentally friendly option.

When used in fuel cells, hydrogen combines with oxygen to produce electricity, with water and heat being the only byproducts. This makes hydrogen a potentially zero-emission fuel source, especially when produced renewably. Hydrogen can also be combusted directly in modified internal combustion engines, similar to gasoline or diesel engines, though this method is less efficient and can produce nitrogen oxides.

Applications for hydrogen fuel are diverse and include powering vehicles (cars, trucks, buses, trains, and ships), generating electricity, and providing heat. Its high energy density by weight, combined with zero-emission potential when produced cleanly, makes it a promising candidate for decarbonizing various sectors of the economy. Challenges to widespread adoption include the cost of production, the need for extensive infrastructure for storage and transportation, and safety considerations associated with handling a highly flammable gas.