A British research laboratory claims to have developed a way of testing hydrogen for use in fuel cells, which could help the technology to meet safety standards.

The Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL) claims its high-pressure hydrogen gas testing system is more efficient than current methods and is able to test hydrogen systems up to pressures of 1,000 bar.

Furthermore, researchers using the system are equipped to investigate a range of high pressure hydrogen applications including component and materials testing and refuelling and bulk storage, the HSL claims.

Dr Stuart Hawksworth, HSL's head of explosion safety, said: "This unique facility allows us to conduct tests at greater pressures than were previously available.

"It enhances our capability to conduct and support the research needed to enable a safe hydrogen economy.

"We already have contracts in place for hydrogen tests from the European Commission, the UK government and industry, and we are also in discussion with several other organisations regarding future work for the facility."

Source:

Unique High-Pressure Hydrogen Testing Facility Launched, 11/10/07
http://www.hsl.gov.uk/news/index.htm#hydrogen

New testing system to make hydrogen safer, 15/10/07
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=13644&channel=6


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