Researchers at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands have developed a more energy-efficient method for cooling hydrogen without using rare-earth materials. This breakthrough, detailed in a study published in the Nature Communications journal, could revolutionize the use of hydrogen as a fuel source for airplanes and cars.
Traditional methods of cooling hydrogen to liquefy it involve energy-intensive processes and the use of polluting refrigerant gases. The new magnetocaloric cooling method utilizes magnetic refrigeration and earth-abundant materials to transfer heat from the materials to a heat sink through the strategic use of a magnetic field.
The researchers believe that their solution could reduce costs and improve the environmental friendliness of cooling technology. This development is significant for the hydrogen economy, as hydrogen fuel does not pollute or contribute to global warming when burned, making it an attractive alternative for clean energy solutions.
The use of hydrogen in boats, planes, and cars is already gaining traction globally, with recent advancements demonstrating the potential of the technology. Green hydrogen production, which does not rely on dirty energy sources, is crucial for the growth of clean energy solutions.
Efficient methods of liquefying and storing hydrogen will be essential for industrial applications, and researchers are continuing to explore ways to enhance the magnetocaloric properties of their solution. The findings from this study offer a promising step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future powered by hydrogen technology.
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