By allowing the safe, reversible storage of hydrogen by chemisorption in stable organic molecules, Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHCs) offer a promising substitute. The dibenzyltoluene/perhydrodibenzyltoluene (DBT/DBTH) combination in particular has become popular because of its good hydrogen capacity, low toxicity, and thermal stability. There is no requirement for cryogenic or high-pressure hydrogen storage because hydrogen can be chemically stored in the saturated state and released through catalytic dehydrogenation.
The creation of an on-demand hydrogen release system based on LOHC and tailored for onboard maritime applications needs to satisfy the dynamic power requirements of a cruise ship during short-distance transits, maneuvering, and berthing. In order to achieve zero emissions while docked, the generated hydrogen needs to be fed into PEM fuel cells, which power the ship’s hotel load during port operations. The system architecture tackles relevant engineering issues, such as LOHC circulation under variable load conditions, catalyst performance, and heat integration for the endothermic dehydrogenation reaction.
The suggested solution reduces energy losses related to traditional storage techniques, while improving safety and operating flexibility by avoiding direct handling of elemental hydrogen. According to this work, LOHC technology has the potential to be a practical means of incorporating hydrogen into maritime energy systems, supporting larger decarbonization goals and creating new chances for process intensification in mobile applications.