Hydrogen leakage monitoring and early warning and risk assessment in hydrogen storage systems: Research progress

Hydrogen energy is a clean, efficient and sustainable green energy source from a wide range of sources, and is an important way to achieve the country’s dual-carbon goals. However, due to the special characteristics of hydrogen energy, there is a certain risk of leakage. Guaranteeing the safety of hydrogen energy during storage can facilitate the promotion and application of hydrogen energy. After briefly introducing the characteristics of different hydrogen storage methods at the present stage, this paper describes the advantages and disadvantages of each hydrogen storage method, focusing on the hydrogen leakage hazards of high-pressure gaseous and low-temperature liquid hydrogen storage systems. The means of monitoring and early warning used to prevent accidents following accidental leaks in hydrogen storage systems are listed and the characteristics and functions of the various types of sensors used for monitoring and early warning are outlined in detail. This is followed by a summary overview of existing approaches to risk assessment following an accidental release from a hydrogen storage system, and finally by a compilation of preventive and control measures following the spread of a leak from a hydrogen storage system. The deficiencies and shortcomings of the existing monitoring and warning are revealed, and the next step to enhance the risk assessment method of leakage and diffusion of hydrogen storage system is also prospected.