Review on Catalytic Conversion Mechanism of Ortho-Para Hydrogen

Ortho-para hydrogen conversion in the hydrogen liquefaction process is significant for the long-term storage and long-distance transportation of liquid hydrogen. This paper outlines the differences in the properties of orthohydrogen and parahydrogen, reviews the research progress on the physical mechanisms and reaction kinetic models of the ortho-para hydrogen catalytic conversion process, and summarizes the performance of common catalysts. Finally, three mainstream schemes for ortho-para hydrogen conversion are compared. Research on the internal physical mechanisms and reaction kinetic models explores the conversion process from microscopic and macroscopic perspectives, respectively. Owing to the lack of experimental data, scholars have not yet formed a unified explanation for the surface characteristics of catalysts, which must be quantitatively validated. Furthermore, although nickel-based catalysts have higher catalytic efficiency, iron hydroxides and oxide catalysts are the main catalyst choices for ortho-para hydrogen conversion, considering the preparation, activation, and deactivation of catalysts and the characteristics of the liquefier. Among the three mainstream ortho-para hydrogen conversion schemes, the hydrogen liquefaction process with continuous conversion has the lowest energy consumption and is the future direction. Relevant research in China is still in its early stages and has great potential for development. This study provides theoretical guidance for the design and construction of ortho-para hydrogen catalytic conversion test benches.