Technology
What is it?
Ionic compressors make use of ionic liquids instead of a piston to compress hydrogen gas. Ionic compressors are currently in use today in several hydrogen refuelling stations to reach the required pressures for hydrogen FCEVs.
Why is it important?
Potentially lower-cost compression. As with other mechanical compressors, could be effective for large-scale compression of hydrogen.
Characteristics
- Gravimetric hydrogen density: N/A
- Storage conditions: Up to 1000 bar pressure demonstrated
Benefits
- Potential to yield energy saving of 40% over standard mechanical compressors
- Do not require bearings and seals, which are the most common sources of failure in mechanical compressors
Limitations
- Low volumetric energy density
- Energy intensive process
- High cost of ionic liquids
RD&D priorities
- Develop low-cost ionic liquids
- Develop high performance ionic liquids (lower viscosity, improved operating temperature range)
Known active organisations
- No active institutions found in study