Comparative analysis of methods of hydrogen transportation by sea transport based on the criterion of specific loading capacity

The paper examines vessel designs and existing vessels for the transportation of hydrogen in its various aggregate states and chemically bound forms. The aim of the study is to determine the optimal method of transporting hydrogen by sea in terms of specific carrying capacity. The objective of the study was to establish the relationship between the size of the transported commercial batch of hydrogen (taking into account its form) and the technical and operational characteristics of the vessel for its transportation in relation to each of the possible methods of storing hydrogen on board. The approach used made it possible to determine the optimal options in terms of specific carrying capacity for the marine transportation of hydrogen on ships with a displacement of 25…80 thousand tons. It was determined that LPG gas carriers and chemical tankers for transporting ammonia and methanol, respectively, are optimal in terms of specific carrying capacity in the displacement range under consideration. Conceptual designs of vessels for transporting hydrogen in “pure” form (compressed or liquefied) have shown insignificant results. An intermediate position is occupied by the method of transporting hydrogen using liquid organic carriers.