Review and analysis of the hydrogen production technologies from a safety perspective

Abstract

Hydrogen can be produced via many different technologies; however, from a safety standpoint there exists no framework for selecting the right technology. Here, we provide a structured framework for assessment of the most desirable hydrogen production technology based on efficiency, safety, and infrastructure, by using a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) integrated Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and life-cycle index (LInX) approach. We apply this modified MCDM approach to steam methane reforming (SMR), autothermal reforming, partial oxidation, alkaline electrolysis, polymer electrode membrane electrolysis, and solid oxide electrolyzer cell processes. Our results show that SMR is the most desirable technology based on the efficiency, safety, and infrastructure criteria. We employ fuzzy set theory to address subjectivity and uncertainty challenges in the data and found that although the technologies based on electrolysis have an environmental advantage, they exhibit higher uncertainties than non-renewable technologies such as SMR. Overall, this new framework addresses the challenge to find the most desirable and safer technology for hydrogen production. • A framework to assess the most desirable hydrogen production technology considering efficiency, safety, and infrastructure. • The framework uses a MCDM integrated Analytic Hierarchy Process and life-cycle index approach. • Steam methane reforming is the most desirable technology based on the efficiency, safety, and infrastructure criteria. • The finding helps to choosing the most desirable hydrogen production technology.