Hydrogen and H2NG leak detection for continuous monitoring and safe operation of HRS and future hydrogen/H2NG networks

The proposed research is expected to focus on developing and validating reliable leak sensing services and leak detection sensor technologies for hydrogen and NG/H₂ mixtures. The proposed research work should start at TRL 3 and end at TRL 5 or higher.

New and optimised leak detection sensors and tools should be developed in order to enable safer storage, transport and distribution of hydrogen. Leak detection technologies may include the development of new or optimisation of existing portable and fixed sensors (ideally with remote access) with various technical approaches (e.g. acoustic, laser scanning, optical fibre sensors, infrared if NG/H₂ mix considered, odorised molecules, strain gauge). Optimisation of existing hydrogen emission detection systems in terms of measuring range, tolerance, temperature measuring range, pressure range, response and recovery time[[Understood as time between two measurements.]], and to lower the costs for investments, compression/operations and maintenance should also be considered.

Besides the technical KPIs that were already mentioned in the expected outcome section other key elements for leak detection monitoring are outlined below:

• Leak detection devices should identify the origin or the leak (e.g acoustic detection) to allow the commissioning & operating team to fix the issue;
• The leak detection system should warn personnel with visual and audible warnings when the environment is becoming unsafe; remote notification should be preferred.

The proposed technology should be suitable for continuous leak detection monitoring or/and periodic maintenance. Certain leak categories may be addressed by periodic measurement while other leak detection solutions may require interconnected mobile sensors or multiplexed arrangements.

Technologies related to hydrogen detection are based on the effects induced by the interaction of hydrogen with a selected sensing material. For example these effects can span catalytic, thermal conductivity, electrical and electrochemical, mechanical optical and acoustic properties. The scope of the topic is completely open to any kind of sensing technology.

Proposals are expected to contribute towards the activities of Mission Innovation 2.0 - Clean Hydrogen Mission. Cooperation with entities from Clean Hydrogen Mission member countries, which are neither EU Member States nor Horizon Europe Associated countries, is encouraged (see section 2.2.6.8 International Cooperation).

Activities are expected to start at TRL 3 and achieve TRL 5 by the end of the project.

The conditions related to this topic are provided in the chapter 2.2.3.2 of the Clean Hydrogen JU 2022 Annual Work Plan and in the General Annexes to the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2021–2022 which apply mutatis mutandis.