hydrogen Archives

The hydrogen rainbow

Written by

Hydrogen production is variable in how eco-friendly it is. This blog explores the various ways in which hydrogen is produced.

Hydrogen power is an exciting technology that is likely to be vital for us to achieve a low-carbon or net-zero society. Hydrogen energy is stored in fuel cells, providing us with a clean source of power which is already being used in some vehicles. The production of hydrogen itself, however, can be done using energy from different sources – including […]

A solution to dark matter: New evidence for hydrogen’s second flavour

Written by

Ionised hydrogen in the Triangulum Galaxy.

Following on from his previous research, Professor Eugene Oks at Auburn University, Alabama, presents even further evidence that an explanation for dark matter could lie with a ‘second flavour’ of hydrogen atoms. This time, he analyses the results of an extensive survey of millions of galaxies to assess the characteristics of ‘gravitational lensing’: a light-bending effect, first predicted by Einstein. […]

Hydrogen’s Second Flavour: A Solution to Dark Matter?

Written by

Prof Oks has conducted research in atomic and molecular physics.

From their observations, astronomers widely predict that dark matter must comprise around 85% of all matter in the universe. So far, however, most theories about the nature of this mysterious source of mass have pinned their hopes on theoretical, as-yet undiscovered particles. Professor Eugene Oks from the Physics Department of the Auburn University has proposed that a more natural explanation […]

Hydrogen? Just add water and sunlight

Written by

Hydrogen has been sold to the public as having the potential to be the ultra-clean fuel for the future’s economy. What’s less likely to be mentioned is that 96% of hydrogen is produced from natural gas, coal or other fossil fuels – producing it using renewable electricity is simply too expensive. To realise hydrogen’s full potential, the world needs better […]

Cleaner pathways to chemical synthesis via new generation catalysts

Written by

Professor Keane’s work is directed at clean chemical production using bio-derived feedstock with a focus on alternative sources of hydrogen for reaction.

The synthesis and manufacture of chemicals, and chemical products, has typically relied on petroleum-based feedstocks. Even hydrogen, often hailed as a ‘clean fuel’ and an important component in many chemical reactions, is sourced from such feedstocks. However, Professor Mark Keane’s research at Heriot-Watt University is developing methods for clean chemical production from alternative, renewable feedstocks. To achieve this, he is designing and developing new […]