Abstract

Despite the potential for electrification of many processes, retaining the capacity, storage and unique functionality of the gas network will remain critical into the foreseeable future. Decarbonising the gas network will require investment on a scale that is not practicable in the short term. Instead, displacing some of the natural gas with hydrogen has the potential to reduce carbon intensity of the gas network. For example, blending 10% (v/v) hydrogen would still require a step-change in hydrogen production capability. In doing so, the gas network could act as a trigger to create demand for hydrogen, using an existing customer base.

This presentation will report the key findings and demonstrate the changes in flame characteristics and behaviour when natural gas is blended or replaced with hydrogen. The impacts on end-user appliances and processes will be presented. It will be shown that nearly all natural gas combustion appliances (both domestic and industrial) will continue to operate successfully on a 10% (v/v) hydrogen blend, with only minor impact on performance. Indeed, most appliances tested tolerate well over 20% (v/v) blending. Alternative strategies will be explored to enable higher concentrations of hydrogen, including 100% hydrogen.

Although the long-term target is zero carbon, hydrogen blending represents a significant opportunity to drive demand and build hydrogen projects with low risk and little effort required for new infrastructure or change in processes. This would enable uptake and an existing customer base that can help accelerate the growth and development of the hydrogen industry.

Biography

Dr. Paul Medwell is a Professor in the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at The University of Adelaide. He has over twenty years of experience in a broad range of activities related to energy systems. His technical research is particularly focussed on advancing fundamental understanding of combustion systems, especially through the development and application of optical diagnostic measurement techniques. His combustion activities have been diverse, including turbulent flames, sooting flames, high-pressure combustion, domestic/industrial appliances, and the so-called MILD (moderate or intense low oxygen dilution) combustion regime for lowering NOx emissions, increasing efficiency, and improving fuel flexibility.

Zoom link:

https://kaust.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAvcuqpqDotEtw4b_gW58SRryIyq52jpVJ6