Adsorption-based hydrogen Storage: A comprehensive review and comparative analysis of cryogenic sorption data

Achieving emissions neutrality requires major advances in hydrogen storage technologies. Adsorption on porous materials offers a potential alternative to conventional compression and liquefaction with advantages in safety and energy efficiency. This review examines hydrogen adsorption isotherms for metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolites, and carbon-based materials at 77 K and 298 K using data from the NIST/ARPA-E adsorbent database (up to January 2026). Key aspects including ortho–para hydrogen isomerism, physisorption mechanisms, measurement methods, and adsorption metrics are discussed. Large variability in reported data arises from inconsistent reporting of adsorption type, measurement uncertainty, and hydrogen isomer composition. At 298 K, adsorption capacities remain low (<5 mmol/g), while at 77 K capacities increase substantially, with IRMOF-1 reaching ∼30 mmol/g. MOFs generally show the highest capacities, whereas zeolites and activated carbons may provide superior stability. Standardized methodologies are needed for reliable comparison and technology development.