Determining the Purity of Hydrogen Using Gas Chromatography (GC) and Infrared Spectroscopy (IR) Techniques

In an effort to reduce carbon emissions, the international community is actively moving towards the implementation of decarbonized solutions for use in energy production and transportation.

Hydrogen is an energy dense alternative to carbon-based fuels which many industries are exploring to reduce greenhouse gas and carbons emissions. Hydrogen fuel purity is essential to maintain safe, efficient, and long-lasting operation of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Presently, ISO 14687:2019 and SAE J2719:2020 are the prevailing hydrogen fuel standards for quality specifications. These standards outline the upper limits of specific contaminants known to reduce the efficiency of fuel cell technology and potentially cause irreversible damage to critical fuel cell components. This presentation will dive into hydrogen purity analysis using gas chromatography and infrared spectroscopy for trace level detection of contaminants for hydrogen fuel specification testing.

Data presented will demonstrate the ability of GC and IR to meet and/or exceed the required detection limits and criteria for current hydrogen fuel purity certification. Topics will also include considerations for instrument calibration and operation to ensure a laboratory is equipped for success as demands for hydrogen purity analysis grow.