A new pilot plant has started operation, showing a safe and scalable way to transport hydrogen. The plant is run by Carbon280, a Western Australian company.
The technology, called Hydrilyte, uses a metal hydride mixed with light mineral oil. This method locks hydrogen in a solid form inside the liquid. The hydrogen can be stored for a long time without losing any of its properties. The process can be reversed to release the hydrogen when needed.
Hydrilyte is a safe, pumpable liquid. It can be stored and moved using existing systems for liquid fuels, such as pipelines, tankers, and ships. This could make hydrogen transport cheaper and safer.
The technology may help many industries, including green iron and steel production, which is important for the region. It can also separate hydrogen from helium and store it, which could support natural hydrogen projects both in Australia and around the world.
The pilot plant has investors like Woodside Energy and Hive Energy, a renewable energy company based in the UK. The project shows strong local innovation and engineering.
Hydrilyte’s low-cost, safe, and energy-efficient approach to hydrogen transport could make a big difference to the industry in Australia and beyond.