Liquid Hydrogen (LH₂)

Definition:
Hydrogen that has been cooled to cryogenic temperatures (-253°C) to exist as a liquid, allowing for more efficient storage and transport.

Key Components:

• Cryogenic Tanks: Specialized insulated containers for storing liquid hydrogen.
• Liquefaction Plants: Facilities that convert hydrogen gas into liquid form.
• Regasification Units: Systems that convert liquid hydrogen back into gas when needed.

Use Cases/Industries:

• Aerospace: Used as rocket fuel, including for NASA and SpaceX missions.
• Hydrogen Transportation: Enables large-scale shipping of hydrogen across continents.

Advantages:

• Higher Energy Density: More compact storage compared to gaseous hydrogen.
• Efficient Transport: Allows for bulk transportation over long distances.

Challenges:

• High Energy Requirement: Liquefaction consumes significant electricity.
• Boil-Off Losses: Hydrogen gradually evaporates from storage tanks.

Related Terms:
Hydrogen Storage, Cryogenic Engineering, Hydrogen Transportation

Example:
The European Space Agency (ESA) uses liquid hydrogen to fuel Ariane rockets for space missions.