A Comprehensive Review of Hydrogen Safety for Gas Turbine Power Plant Operations

Abstract Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a key component in transitioning to a sustainable energy future, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its safety protocols. This is primarily due to its unique properties, including its low ignition energy and wide flammability range. Understanding the potential hazards associated with handling hydrogen and its utilization is crucial for ensuring safe practices in its deployment. This paper presents a thorough review of the safety aspects of hydrogen in a power generation facility. The focus on safety encompasses various ignition sources, types of leaks, and the chemical kinetics involved in hydrogen behavior, which is essential for the safe handling and utilization of hydrogen in industrial and commercial applications. This review adopts a systematic methodology to collect and analyze data from a diverse range of sources, including scholarly articles, industry reports, and safety regulations from pertinent organizations. Safety considerations were addressed through an in-depth examination of ignition sources, such as electrical sparks, hot surfaces, and static electricity, which have the potential to trigger hydrogen combustion. Furthermore, the review identifies and categorizes various types of leaks such as punctures, cracks, and seal failures based on their associated risk levels and potential consequences. The chemical kinetics of hydrogen were also investigated, encompassing reaction rates, energy release during combustion, and the temperatures and pressures associated with different hydrogen solutions, including hydrogen-enriched natural gas (HENG). This comprehensive exploration provides valuable insights into the behavior of hydrogen under various conditions. The analysis of ignition sources reveals that even minor sparks can ignite hydrogen due to its low ignition energy, necessitating stringent safety measures for facilities handling hydrogen. As the hydrogen economy continues to grow, ongoing research and development in safety practices will be essential to mitigate risks and promote the safe adoption of hydrogen as a viable energy source. The insights gained from this review aim to guide policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in their efforts to create a safe and sustainable hydrogen infrastructure for power generation facilities.