Can Hydrogen be cheap fuel?

A group of young engineers in Karachi has developed a locally made generator that produces hydrogen gas from water.

The new technology could open doors to industrial commercial and even household uses offering a possible alternative to traditional fuels.

At a time when Pakistan is facing energy shortages rising fuel prices and increasing production costs this invention by a local startup called Pak Hydro could become an important step towards exploring alternative energy sources.

The team has developed an electrolysis generator that uses electricity to separate water into hydrogen and oxygen.  The hydrogen produced by the machine can then be burned to generate heat and flames for different purposes.

The project is led by Muhammad Ayan, an electrical engineering student at Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology and the founder and CEO of Pak Hydro.

The team also includes Dr Usman Alauddin, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer who is a professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at NED University.

Ameer Ali is another co-founder and Chief Operating Officer. He works as an assistant professor in the Electrical Engineering Department at Sir Syed University.

How does the hydrogen generator work?

The generator uses a process called electrolysis. In this process, electricity is passed through water to separate it into hydrogen and oxygen.

The hydrogen gas can then be used as a fuel to produce heat. The system is being presented as a possible alternative to natural gas, LPG and other fossil fuels.

According to Dr Usman Alauddin, the current prototype is claimed to have the capacity to produce one kilogram of hydrogen in around six to eight minutes.

The process uses approximately 8 to 10 litres of water.

However the actual electricity consumption and production cost depend on the machine’s efficiency and operating conditions.  The team says the generator could also run on solar power making renewable energy a possible source of electricity for the system.

Can hydrogen become a cheaper fuel?

One of the main questions about this technology is whether it can produce hydrogen at an affordable cost.

According to the engineers developing the initial prototype cost around Rs50,000. Most of its basic components were also purchased locally showing the potential for developing this technology within Pakistan.

However the actual cost of producing hydrogen will depend on electricity prices, energy consumption and the generator’s efficiency.

If solar energy is used to operate the machine it may help reduce dependence on electricity from conventional sources. However further testing is needed to understand its commercial costs and long term performance.

Where can this technology be used?

The startup believes its hydrogen torch system could be useful in several industries and businesses that need a regular supply of heat.

•Potential uses include

•Metal cutting and welding

•Small manufacturing units

•Textile industries

•Bakeries and commercial ovens

•Traditional tandoors

Other businesses that require high temperatures. Many of these businesses currently depend on natural gas LPG and other fuels.

Rising fuel prices have increased their operating expenses. Hydrogen could become another option if it proves safe reliable and affordable.

Is hydrogen fuel safe to use?

Although hydrogen has potential as an alternative fuel safety is a major concern. Hydrogen is highly flammable and can create serious risks if it leaks or is handled incorrectly.

The Pak Hydro team says it has included several safety features in its generator to reduce these risks.

Founder Muhammad Ayan explains that the system produces hydrogen according to demand instead of storing large quantities of gas.  This approach may reduce some risks linked to gas storage.

However, proper safety measures are still necessary during hydrogen production,

movement and use. Special equipment and careful handling are essential to prevent leaks fires and explosions.

Can hydrogen help protect the environment?

Hydrogen is also attracting attention as a cleaner energy option. When hydrogen burns in oxygen it mainly produces water vapour and does not directly release carbon dioxide.

In this generator electricity is used to separate water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is then burned to produce heat.

However the overall environmental benefits depend on how the electricity used in the process is generated. Using solar or other renewable energy could make the system a cleaner option.

The locally developed generator is an encouraging example of Pakistani engineering talent. While more testing is needed to confirm its efficiency safety and commercial value the project could contribute to the country’s search for alternative energy solutions.