Beyond the Hydrogen Leak: Advancing Understanding of Ignition and Flame Propagation to Inform Mitigation Strategies

Objectif

Hydrogen (H2) is a cornerstone of energy decarbonization and a key enabler for hard-to-abate indus-trial sectors. However, this vision is challenged by major safety concerns arising from its extremely low ignition energy, wide flammability range, and high explosion propensity. External ignition and flame propagation following an unforeseen high-pressure H2 leak can lead to catastrophic injury and damage. Progress in understanding these phenomena was hindered by a twofold experimental limitation: the scarcity of in-situ quantitative data and the lack of high-fidelity facilities tailored for H2 safety research. This incomplete understanding fundamentally limits hazard mitigation strategies and the widespread use of H2. BeLIF aims to close this gap by establishing a first-principles understanding of transient H2 leak processes through advanced laboratory experiments. Its core methodology combines purpose-built facilities with state-of-the-art in-situ laser diagnostics. The central high-pressure chamber allows controlled variation of pressure, turbulence, and gas composition to reproduce realistic environment. BeLIF will systematically investigate three key processes: (1) the formation of an under-expanded jet, (2) the external ignition of the flammable mixture, and (3) the stabilization and propagation of the resulting jet flame. The project will deliver an unprecedented, quantitative understanding to hinder unwanted ignition and flame following the H2 leak. With emphasis on environmental influences, the knowledge gained will be essential for developing preventive mitigation strategies. The innovation lies in its novel experimental approach to resolve the coupled thermal, chemical, and fluid-dynamic processes that govern hydrogen jet, ignition and flame evolution. Ultimately, BeLIF will provide the scientific foundation for a paradigm shift in hazard mitigation strategies, moving from passive protection toward a proactive, science-driven safety-by-design approach.