12-09-2024 | Posted by Joaquín Martí
Hydrogen has already been the subject of one of our posts, where we reviewed some of its promises and challenges as an energy carrier. We retrieve the subject today from the perspective of its possible role in the future of transportation, particularly where electrification is challenging or impractical.
On the bright side, hydrogen fuel cells can offer a long-range solution for heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks and ships, which are difficult to electrify due to their weight and energy requirements. And they would also appear to be a suitable solution for off-road vehicles, such as mining trucks, construction machinery, and emergency vehicles. Hydrogen fuel cells can operate independently of the electrical grid, and they can also power transportation infrastructure in remote areas or areas with limited grid access. The high energy density of hydrogen and the lack of emissions at the point of usage make it attractive in those contexts.
For similar reasons, in aviation, hydrogen fuel cells are being explored as a potential propulsion technology for airplanes, especially for short-haul flights and regional aircraft.
A particularly intriguing possibility is the resurgence of airships with hydrogen providing the lift. A brief note by Eli Dourado from the Center for Growth and Opportunity at Utah State University highlights some of the key issues. Airships have the potential to play a significant role, especially for long-distance cargo and passenger travel, disaster relief operations, and aerial surveillance.
Their high payload capacity is an advantage for long-distance cargo transportation: they can carry considerably more cargo than conventional cargo planes and are suitable for transporting large and heavy items. Also, airships are more fuel-efficient than airplanes due to their lower aerodynamic drag and slower cruising speed, which translates into lower operating costs and reduced emissions. And they can operate from non-traditional airfields, such as unpaved surfaces, open fields, and water.
For passenger travel, airships offer a unique and luxurious alternative, providing a more comfortable and spacious environment than afforded by airplanes. They can also operate at lower altitudes, offering panoramic views and reducing the impact of jet lag.
Airships are well-suited for disaster relief operations due to their ability to access remote areas, hover over disaster zones, and carry large amounts of supplies and personnel. They can also be used for search and rescue missions, aerial mapping, and surveillance of large areas, making them valuable for military, environmental monitoring, and law enforcement applications.
Many important challenges remain. Hydrogen production and fuel cell technology are still relatively expensive compared to conventional fuels; R&D efforts and economies of scale are needed to reduce costs and make hydrogen more competitive. Building a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure, including production, storage, and distribution, is a significant undertaking and requires substantial investments. And strict safety standards and regulations for handling and storing hydrogen are crucial to ensure the safe use of hydrogen in transportation applications.
From the specific viewpoint of airships, it is worth noting that they are more susceptible to weather conditions compared to airplanes, which can limit their maneuverability and operating range. Elevation control presents its own peculiarities after releasing a large load. And, while endowed with a certain nostalgic appeal, they have a reputation for being slow and outdated; their widespread adoption may require an exercise of conveying to the general public the benefits of modern airship technology.
