H₂ – Gas detection solutions for Hydrogen

Hydrogen gas detection with Bieler+Lang

Hydrogen as an important energy source of the future

Hydrogen is not only an important industrial gas, but is also becoming a key energy source in the energy transition. However, hydrogen differs significantly from other fuels in terms of its properties and hazards. With the growth of the global hydrogen economy, hydrogen plays a crucial role in the decarbonisation of the global energy supply. However, the safe use of hydrogen requires strict safety precautions, in particular through the use of reliable hydrogen gas detection systems.

Why hydrogen as an energy carrier?

The fossil fuels currently in use are limited and harmful to the environment. Renewable energies are therefore gaining in importance, but also pose challenges, such as the storage of energy from intermittent sources such as wind and sun. Hydrogen offers a solution here:

• Energy storage: Electrolysis can be used to store surplus renewable energy in hydrogen.
• High energy density: Hydrogen has a higher energy density than batteries and produces no harmful emissions when used – the only by-product is water. The advantages of hydrogen make it a key technology in a zero-emission future. According to forecasts, the global hydrogen market is growing by around 6% annually and will reach a value of 155 billion US dollars by 2022.

Risks when handling hydrogen

Despite its advantages, hydrogen also harbors considerable risks:

1. Risk of leakage: Hydrogen is the smallest molecule in the universe and can easily diffuse through many materials.
2. High flammability: Hydrogen is flammable between 4% and 75% by volume in air – compared to methane (4.4%-17%). Even minimal amounts of energy of 0.017 mJ can ignite a hydrogen-air mixture.

These properties make it essential to install high-quality hydrogen gas warning systems.

Hydrogen and gas detection technology

Since hydrogen is odourless, colourless and tasteless, specialised sensors are essential for detecting leaks. Our gas detection systems detect critical H2 concentrations in the ambient air and respond automatically with acoustic and visual warning signals, the activation of ventilation systems or the shutdown of affected plant components. Gas warning systems usually consist of precisely positionable gas sensors, central evaluation units, and interfaces to building automation or emergency shutdown systems. Two sensor technologies have proven particularly suitable for gas sensors for the reliable detection of hydrogen:

Pellistor sensors

1. How it works: A catalyst triggers combustion of the gas at low temperatures, the heat generated is measured and the gas content is displayed as a percentage of the lower explosion limit (%LEL).
2. Advantages: Robust, cost-effective and reliable – ideal for general hydrogen monitoring applications.

Electrochemical sensors

• How it works: Hydrogen reacts with an electrolyte, which generates a proportional current.
• Advantages: High sensitivity (measuring ranges from 0-1000 ppm to 0-40,000 ppm), ideal for applications where low hydrogen concentrations need to be detected.

Unsuitable technologies

• Infrared sensors: Cannot detect hydrogen, as diatomic molecules do not absorb IR radiation.
• Semiconductor sensors: React to many other gases, which can lead to false alarms.

Hydrogen gas warning systems from Bieler+Lang

Our gas detection systems offer maximum precision and reliability:

• Addressable detectors for safe areas or potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX/IECEx).
• Aspirating detectors for areas that are difficult to access, such as clean rooms.
• Ex-Detector-X5: Standalone detectors with versatile application options, including dual gas sensors.
• Ex-Detector HC 100: Rock-solid sensor with comprehensive certifications

Get in touch with us

Learn more about our hydrogen gas detection systems and accessories such as collection funnels and remote gas connections. Talk to our team of experts and find the right solution for your specific application!

• Hydrogen gas warning systems
• Hydrogen leak detection
• Hydrogen monitoring systems
• Hydrogen safety
• ATEX-certified Gas Detectors
• Hydrogen sensors
• Hydrogen Gas Detectors for Industry

Products for hydrogen gas warning devices:

Gas warning systems usually consist of precisely positioned gas sensors, central evaluation units and interfaces to building automation or emergency shutdown systems. We would be happy to advise you on the appropriate and standard-compliant design of your gas warning system in the area of hydrogen, Ex zones 1 and 2.