HRS 2

Hydrogen quality in the energy transition

Hydrogen is highly reactive, and this is what makes its purity so critical in energy applications. In traditional industrial settings like ammonia synthesis or hydrocracking, hydrogen quality specifications have long been well understood and tailored to specific chemical processes. However, as hydrogen expands into new sectors like mobility, decentralised power and steel decarbonisation, a more nuanced and holistic approach to quality is required.

Hydrogen, especially when used in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEM-FC) in mobility applications, must meet strict purity standards. Trace levels of contaminants like oxygen, nitrogen, moisture, or sulfur-bearing compounds can irreversibly damage fuel cells, reduce catalyst life, and compromise safety.

This white paper provides a comprehensive overview of hydrogen quality across the value chain: from production and storage to transport and end-use. It shows the latest insights from standards bodies (ISO, SAE, EN), field experience in hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS), and metrological research. Through this analysis, LIFTE H2, part of px Group, aims to support operators, engineers, regulators, and technology developers in building a robust, efficient, and contamination-aware hydrogen infrastructure.

I. Sensitivity of Modern Technologies

PEM-FC operate with narrow tolerances for contaminants. For example:

If you would like to find out more about hydrogen production, storage, transportation and technologies, please fill out the form below. We will then provide you with the full file:

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