Thermophysical Properties of Gas Mixtures Containing Hydrogen

dtec.bw-joint project with Helmut Schmidt University (HSU), Hamburg,

and Physikalisch Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Berlin, 2021 – 2024

Knowledge of the thermophysical properties of gas mixtures is required to design processes for handling and storing large amounts of hydrogen in the course of the energy transition. A wide range of data regarding density, viscosity, diffusivities, and heat conductivity as well as heat capacity are needed as a function of the phase composition in order to properly describe systems that are relevant for future energy supply. Theoretical models are developed and validated using experimental data. Eurotechnica GmbH is designing the high-pressure equipment, providing consultations regarding safety aspects, and supporting with own measurements.

Joint research with Clausthal University of Technology (TUC) and CanmetENERGY, Canada (NRCan), 2021

Safe storage of hydrogen and carbon dioxide depends on the trapping mechanisms and the mass transfer in the subsurface formations. Various mechanisms which are related to the phase and interfacial behavior are superposed. Wetting and interfacial tension induce capillary action that may either support or compromise the confinement of the injected gas. Gas adsorption contributes to altering the wettability of caprocks from water-wet to CO₂-wet, which may imperil the caprock sealing integrity. On the other hand, gas adsorption on mineral surfaces and organic matter contributes to higher gas storage capacities. Moreover, solubility trapping in the organic matter or formation water is also to be accounted for. Eurotechnica supports various ongoing projects through the provision of equipment and lab facilities. 

References:

Wang, J., Samara, H., Jaeger, P., Ko, V., Rodgers, D., Ryan, D., 2022. Investigation for CO₂ Adsorption and Wettability of Reservoir Rocks. Energy Fuels 36 (2022) 1626–1634. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.energyfuels.1c03366.

R. A. Villablanca-Ahues, M. Paul, P. T. Jaeger, N. R. Perozo: Interfacial properties of H2/CO2 mixtures affecting safe operations of underground storage, EEK 137, (2021) 10, 31-34. https://doi.org/10.19225/211003

Samara, H., Ostrowski, T.V., Jaeger, P., 2024. Interfacial and transport properties of supercritical hydrogen and carbon dioxide in unconventional formations. The Journal of Supercritical Fluids 205, 106124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.supflu.2023.106124