Hydrogen is often referred to as the fuel of the future, so it is important we understand the different forms the gas can come in. Typically, it can be categorised into two types: emissions generating and zero emissions.
Emissions Generating Hydrogen
Brown Hydrogen
This is the most damaging form of hydrogen as it relies on burning coal. Brown hydrogen is the opposite of green and releases a substantial amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Grey Hydrogen
This product involves a steam methane reforming process to split the natural gas into carbon and hydrogen, which emits CO2 back into the atmosphere. Grey hydrogen is the most common type of hydrogen and accounts for the majority of what we produce today.
Blue Hydrogen
Similar to grey hydrogen, this involves using a steam methane reform method to split natural gas into hydrogen and CO2. However, blue hydrogen implements technology to capture more than 90% of the carbon produced during the process. This captured carbon can also be recycled and used to create other things such as metal alternatives and sustainable concrete.
Zero Emissions Hydrogen
Green Hydrogen
Green hydrogen is produced through an electrolyser powered by renewable energy sources, meaning it does not release any greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The process involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. This type of hydrogen is viewed as one of the most viable solutions to decarbonising the global economy.
Emerald hydrogen
White Hydrogen
While hydrogen is a naturally occurring gas found in geological deposits. Currently, companies are developing cutting-edge sustainable technology to extract this from underground pockets containing the gas.
Yellow Hydrogen
Turquoise Hydrogen
Pink, Purple and Red Hydrogen
The colours pink, purple, or red refer to hydrogen produced through nuclear energy.