A perspective on the production of hydrogen from solar-driven thermal decomposition of methane

In addition to green hydrogen from electrolysis of the water molecule with solar photovoltaic or wind electricity, and white hydrogen, based on solar-thermal driven thermochemical splitting of the water molecule, there is another emerging opportunity to produce CO2 free hydrogen at a reduced cost. The perspective advocates in favor of aquamarine hydrogen, based on the solar-thermal driven thermal decomposition of methane. This pathway has an energy requirement that is much less than white and green hydrogen, and even if based on hydrocarbon fuel, has no direct production of CO2 as a byproduct, but rather carbon particles of commercial interest. Catalytic methane decomposition can be based on self-standing/supported metal-based catalysts such as Fe, Ni, Co, and Cu, metal oxide supports such as SiO2, Al2O3, and TiO2, and carbon- based catalysts such as carbon blacks, carbon nanotubes, and activated carbons, the pathway of higher technology readiness level (TRL). Thus, catalytic methane decomposition appears to be a highly promising approach, with undoubtedly many challenges, but also huge opportunities following pathways to be further refined through research and development (R&D). (C) 2021 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The solar-thermal driven thermal decomposition of methane to produce aquamarine hydrogen is a promising approach with low energy requirements, no direct CO2 production, and carbon particles of commercial interest as byproducts. Catalytic methane decomposition using metal-based, metal oxide, and carbon-based catalysts offers a pathway of higher technology readiness level (TRL). Despite challenges, this method provides vast opportunities for further refinement through research and development.