8:30 AM | 6:00 PM | Badge Pick-Up & On-site Registration |
8:30 AM | 9:00 AM | Morning Coffee & Networking |
9:00 AM | 9:05 AM | Welcome Remarks |
9:05 AM | 9:50 AM | Keynote: Brett Perlman, Center for Houston's Future, Inc. (CHF) |
9:50 AM | 10:20 AM | Break |
10:20 AM | 12:15 PM | Session 1: Hydrogen for Transportation |
10:20 AM | 10:45 AM | Noemi Leick, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) "Solid-state hydrogen storage solutions in unmanned aerial vehicles" Read more The advancement of electric aviation in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) demands innovative energy storage systems that extend flight time while maintaining safety and efficiency. Hydrogen (H₂) fuel technologies are emerging as a leading solution, offering high energy density and safety benefits. This presentation focuses on Fuel Additives for Solid Hydrogen (FLASH) materials—an advanced alternative to compressed hydrogen gas. FLASH uses metal-borohydride-based materials activated thermally to store hydrogen in chemical bonds, enabling stable, ambient-condition storage with controlled on-demand release. This approach not only enhances safety but also significantly extends UAV flight endurance compared to batteries. FLASH systems have demonstrated the potential to achieve 7 wt% hydrogen content and 550 Wh/kg energy density, offering a promising, low-cost, drop-in replacement for current fuel cartridge technologies. By integrating FLASH, UAV platforms can benefit from increased operational range and reduced logistical burdens, marking a key step forward in sustainable electric aviation. Read less |
10:45 AM | 11:10 AM | Abhinav Kumar, Linde "Innovative Approach Towards Building Hydrogen Refueling Stations" Read more To combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, the transportation sector is shifting toward sustainable, zero-emission solutions. Legislative mandates in many regions will soon require fleet operators to adopt low-carbon vehicles. Hydrogen fuel offers a compelling alternative due to its clean emissions, extended range, and fast refueling capabilities compared to other low-carbon options. This project focuses on building a hydrogen refueling station in LaPorte, Texas, connected to a hydrogen pipeline to minimize costs and promote hydrogen as a viable fuel for large trucks. By leveraging pipeline infrastructure, Linde’s station will reduce hydrogen delivery costs and enhance environmental benefits, encouraging adoption among fleet operators, especially along the Texas-to-California freight corridor, one of the largest in the U.S. Linde’s cutting-edge hydrogen production, compression, and fueling technologies will drive this initiative, showcasing the feasibility of pipeline-connected refueling stations. The project explores operational considerations, including optimizing infrastructure, maintaining hydrogen purity, designing the station layout, managing fleet growth, and expanding heavy-duty refueling capacity to meet rising demand. Additionally, potential technology upgrades like liquid-to-liquid fueling for subcooled liquid hydrogen (sLH2) will be analyzed to further enhance efficiency. By addressing economic, logistical, and environmental challenges, Linde aims to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a clean fuel, providing a scalable model for zero-emission mobility and contributing to global climate goals. This project positions hydrogen as a transformative solution for decarbonizing heavy-duty transportation while leveraging strategic infrastructure and innovative fueling technologies Read less |
11:10 AM | 11:35 AM | Nirav Shah, Evonik "Ammonia cracking with high performance catalysts from Evonik" Read more Ammonia cracking is pivotal for the hydrogen economy and global clean energy trade, utilizing existing infrastructure for efficient energy transport. This process, essential for hydrogen release from ammonia, favors high temperatures and low pressure for effective conversion. Thus, high-performance catalysts, particularly nickel (Ni) and ruthenium (Ru) types, are crucial for optimizing ammonia cracking at lower temperatures and delivery pressures suitable for various applications. Catalyst screening and application tests are vital to ensure the catalyst matches the process requirements and operates with maximum efficiency. Ammonia cracking is versatile, suitable for both centralized production for large-scale hydrogen distribution and decentralized systems for local consumption, catering to specific regional or industrial demands. As clean energy demand accelerates, ammonia cracking technology becomes increasingly significant for sustainable hydrogen production. In this presentation, Evonik will describe the specifics of their highly active Ni and Ru catalysts, options to customize them to the specific process needs and how to match commercialization targets of ammonia cracking technology with reliable catalyst supplies. Let EVONIK be your catalyst! Read less |
11:35 AM | 12:00 PM | Invited Speaker TBA |
12:00 PM | 12:15 PM | Submitted Abstract: Samin Rhythm, University of Oklahoma "Assessing Ductility Degradation in Hydrogen Environments: A Machine Learning Approach for Pipeline Steels" Read more Hydrogen embrittlement poses a significant risk to the structural integrity of gas transmission pipelines when they are exposed to hydrogen or hydrogen-containing natural gas. This study focuses on developing a machine learning model to predict the Reduction of Area (RA). A comprehensive dataset was created by combining previously published tensile test data from the literature with our recent experimental data on X52, X60, and X70 steels under varying hydrogen concentrations. Five supervised machine learning models were developed using carefully selected features representing gas composition, material characteristics, and pipeline operating conditions. The models demonstrated excellent predictive performance, closely matching observed RA values with high R² scores, indicating strong generalization capability. This close alignment validates the effectiveness of the models in estimating hydrogen-induced ductility degradation. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of key parameters, including partial pressure, yield strength, and oxygen content, on the predicted RA. The results confirmed that these variables have a significant impact on embrittlement behavior, providing insight into their role in the hydrogen embrittlement process. By integrating high-quality experimental data with advanced modeling techniques, this work offers a reliable predictive framework for assessing pipeline steel performance in hydrogen environments. The findings can support the design and evaluation of hydrogen-compatible infrastructure, aiding the transition toward safer hydrogen-based energy systems. Read less |
12:15 PM | 1:35 PM | Lunch |
1:35 PM | 3:10 PM | Session 2: End Use Applications |
1:35 PM | 2:00 PM | David Spicer, ExxonMobil Technology & Engineering Company 'Proof of Concept' to Full Furnace Application: A Hydrogen Burner Commercialization Journey" Read more At the 2023 AIChE Spring Meeting, ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company outlined the development and testing of a “proof-of-concept” burner for hydrogen combustion in steam cracking furnaces. Test furnace firing revealed acceptable heat distribution and attractive NOx emission characteristics. This paper describes the steps taken and challenges overcome in translating the “proof-of-concept” burner into a commercial-furnace-ready burner. Additional test firing data, and initial commercial furnace data, including NOx emissions on very-high-hydrogen and conventional fuels, will be provided. In addition, the design concept of the pencil-flame burner (subject of the 2023 paper) has been translated to a floor-fired, flat-flame burner for applications with limited space between the furnace coils and side-walls. Initial test data for this hydrogen-capable burner will be provided. Read less |
2:00 PM | 2:25 PM | Trent Rogers, Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) |
2:25 PM | 2:40 PM | Subitted Abstract: Shivansh Chaturvedi, Stanford Universit "Matrix-Stabilized Combustion for Clean H2 and NH3 Combustion in Process Heating Applications" Read more Matrix-stabilized combustion, also known as porous media combustion, is a burner technology in which chemical reactions are facilitated within the hollow pores of a solid lattice, generally fabricated using refractory alloys or high-temperature ceramics. Downstream of the flame, heat exchange from the hot combustion products to the solid matrix leads to the formation of a steep temperature gradient in the solid phase, leading to intense conductive and radiative heat recirculation towards the fresh reactants, and significantly enhancing the flame speed of the mixture. This allows us to stabilize flame at operating conditions that are usually challenging for flame stability, but beneficial for lowered pollutant emissions. In this talk, we will investigate the stabilization properties and pollutant emissions of premixed CH4/H2/air and NH3/H2/air flames in an interface-stabilized porous media burner. We show that the porous media burner is highly fuel flexible, stabilizing flames ranging from pure H2/air to pure NH3/air without modification. This is achieved with reduced emissions of nitric oxides emissions, well-below regulatory limits for H2 operation, and at a level compatible with selective catalytic reduction for treatment of the NH3-fueled burner's exhaust stream. We conclude by presenting current work to leverage additive manufacturing to enable high performance operation of these burners with non-premixed injector typically found in practical systems. Read less |
2:40 PM | 2:55 PM | Submitted Abstract: Neel Sirosh, H2MOF "Transformative Hydrogen Storage with Nano-Engineered Reticular Materials" Read more Efficient, cost-effective and safe storage of hydrogen is a critical requirement for realizing the full potential of hydrogen as a most attractive energy carrier. Conventional storage methods, such as compressed gas or cryogenic liquid, present major challenges in cost, safety, and energy efficiency. Recent breakthroughs in nano-engineered reticular materials help address these challenges. In this talk, Dr. Neel Sirosh, Chief Technology Officer at H2MOF, will present the company’s transformative hydrogen storage technology, built on the pioneering research of its two co-founders: Nobel Laureate Sir Fraser Stoddart and Professor Omar Yaghi, the founder of reticular chemistry. H2MOF leverages nano-engineered reticular materials — specifically metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) — that offer ultrahigh surface areas, customizable pore architectures, and tunable chemical functionalities. These novel materials enable safe, efficient solid-state hydrogen storage at low pressures and near-ambient temperatures, significantly enhancing the efficiencies, reducing the costs and addressing the safety challenges associated with hydrogen storage and transport. Dr. Sirosh will highlight recent advances in MOF materials, including functionalization strategies and system integration approaches that improve hydrogen uptake, desorption kinetics, and thermal management. He will also share how H2MOF is translating cutting-edge research into deployable solutions, positioning MOF-based storage as a key enabler for the emerging hydrogen economy. Attendees will gain insights into how foundational scientific discoveries are driving commercial innovation and reshaping the hydrogen storage landscape, as well as the technical and commercial pathways needed to scale these breakthroughs for real-world decarbonization impact. Read less |
2:55 PM | 3:10 PM | Submitted Abstract: Ritvik Jain, Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. "The Role of Hydrogen (or lack of it) in a Zero Emissions California Electric Grid" Read more As California pursues ambitious decarbonization goals, understanding the potential role of hydrogen in the electric sector is critical. This research investigates the conditions under which hydrogen becomes a cost-effective resource for supporting deep emissions reductions in California’s electricity system. Specifically, we examine how hydrogen’s viability is influenced by cross-sector demand for green hydrogen, the commercial availability of hydrogen production technologies, and the development of transportation and storage infrastructure. To evaluate these dynamics, we use RESOLVE, a publicly available capacity expansion model widely applied by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and other state agencies for long-term grid planning. We simulate multiple decarbonization scenarios through 2045, varying emissions caps and infrastructure assumptions to assess hydrogen’s competitiveness relative to other zero-carbon technologies. Our findings suggest that under California’s current electric sector emissions target of 8 million metric tons (MMT) CO₂ by 2045, there is no economic incentive to invest in hydrogen infrastructure. However, in a more stringent policy scenario—achieving net-zero electric sector emissions (0 MMT) by 2045—hydrogen emerges as a valuable resource for grid balancing and reliability, particularly when paired with high renewable penetration and seasonal storage needs. These results highlight the importance of aligning emissions targets with infrastructure and technology planning. While hydrogen is unlikely to play a major role under moderate decarbonization trajectories, it becomes a strategic asset under more aggressive climate goals, contingent on parallel progress in hydrogen production and delivery infrastructure. Read less |
3:10 PM | 3:40 PM | Break |
3:40 PM | 5:30 PM | Session 3: Scaling & Commercialization – Challenges and Insights |
3:40 PM | 4:05 PM | Ned Stetson, DOE |
4:05 PM | 4:30 PM | David B Biggs, Stoke Space |
4:30 PM | 4:45 PM | Submitted Abstract: Laurence GRAND-Clement, Hyggle "Scalable Digital Energy Management to Accelerate the Viability of Green Hydrogen Infrastructure" Read more The upcoming expansion of green hydrogen infrastructure under limited federal support highlights the urgent need for digital tools that ensure operational, economic, and environmental viability. Hyggle is a SaaS platform built for operators of hydrogen production, storage, and distribution assets. It offers real-time orchestration of assets via a scalable Energy Management System (EMS), designed specifically to address the complexity of integrating renewables, market-based power procurement, and storage flexibility. In this presentation, we showcase how Hyggle enables infrastructure developers and operators to: - Optimize production and delivery schedules based on electricity price forecasts, storage levels, and demand.
- Navigate and monetize volatility in power markets through embedded Energy Purchase Management (EPM) modules.
- Seamlessly integrate with existing SCADA/PLC infrastructure, as well as third-party data providers such as PPA aggregators and hydrogen vehicle fleets.
- Quantify carbon abatement and economic performance in real-time, a key requirement for securing subsidies, offtake agreements, and investor confidence.
We will present real-world use cases from European deployments and introduce ongoing U.S. proof-of-concept work (notably in the Southeast in partnership with Techstars Alabama EnergyTech), focused on hydrogen hubs and distributed hydrogen production. This session will demonstrate how Hyggle bridges digital innovation and industrial practicality—helping the hydrogen economy scale faster, cleaner, and more intelligently. Read less |
4:45 PM | 5:00 PM | Submitted Abstract: David Keisar, MIT "Coupled Techno-Economic Analysis and Thermodynamic Optimization of Large-Scale Hydrogen Storage and Intercontinental Transport Via Metal Hydrides" Read more The global transition to a hydrogen economy demands efficient, safe, and cost-effective solutions for hydrogen storage and transportation. Metal hydride (MH) storage systems are promising candidates, offering high volumetric and gravimetric energy densities alongside enhanced safety compared to conventional pressurized or liquid hydrogen methods. However, while small-scale studies highlight MH systems' economic potential, a significant knowledge gap remains: no holistic, large-scale approach spans the full value chain, from material synthesis and process engineering to operational integration. Additionally, current techno-economic analyses (TEA) lack thermodynamic models that capture performance under transient operating conditions. This study conducts a techno-economic analysis of large-scale hydrogen storage and transportation systems (3 MWh to 10 GWh, corresponding to 0.1–300 tons of hydrogen). A conceptual design integrates detailed process engineering with multi-parametric thermodynamic optimization. By embedding a dedicated thermodynamic submodule into our TEA framework, we evaluate the sensitivity of capital and operational expenditures to key parameters, hydrogenation and dehydrogenation temperatures, pressures, and reaction kinetics, that dictate MH-system performance. This integration identifies optimal operating conditions, minimizing energy inputs and costs while maximizing efficiency and cyclic performance, bridging thermodynamic material-level properties and system-level operational heat and mass transfer kinetics. The study demonstrates MH-based large-scale storage as cost-competitive, safer, and environmentally sustainable compared to conventional methods. Additionally, an interactive open-source platform developed for cost estimation and system optimization provides policymakers and industry stakeholders essential decision-support tools, advancing MH applications in stationary storage and transport. Read less |
5:00 PM | 5:15 PM | Submitted Abstract: Kevin Topolski, National Renewable Energy Laboratory "Repurposing Natural Gas Pipelines Infrastructure for Hydrogen and Hydrogen Blending" Read more The U.S. possesses an extensive natural gas transmission pipeline system comprising of 300,000 miles of steel pipe, of which repurposing could offer a low-cost pathway to transport hydrogen. However, various factors and uncertainties regarding hydrogen’s material and equipment performance impacts on existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure challenge transmission pipeline repurposing for hydrogen transport. Such factors include but are not limited to: enhanced fatigue crack growth and fracture resistance in steel pipes, a reduction of energy capacity at fixed pipeline pressures and an increase in compression energy need as to maintain energy transmission capacity. A proper hydrogen blending techno-economic assessment must balance operating and capital cost considerations such as existing pipeline pressure de-rating, increased compression energy and increased inspection frequency as well as capital equipment modification costs tied to enabling energy transmission capacity. In this presentation, we will introduce the Blending Pipeline Analysis Tool for Hydrogen (BlendPATH), which flexibly assesses the technical and economic impacts of repurposing existing natural gas pipeline to transport hydrogen or blends thereof on a case-by-case basis. Read less |
5:15 PM | 5:30 PM | Submitted Abstract: Sheik Tanveer, Argonne National Laboratory "Pipeline Network Scenario Analysis Model for Hydrogen Hub Deployment" Read more Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier capable of serving multiple roles across the energy system. The U.S. Department of Energy’s H2@Scale initiative has explored the potential for scaling up hydrogen production from various sources and assessed the associated demand across sectors such as refining, chemical manufacturing, metallurgy, transportation, and power generation. Its ability to be stored for extended periods and transported over long distances makes hydrogen particularly valuable for balancing energy supply and demand. Consequently, several H2@Scale demonstration projects have been launched, and recent federal legislation has introduced incentives to support the large-scale deployment of hydrogen production and end-use applications. For large-scale industrial use, pipeline delivery is often the most cost-effective option. In hydrogen hub configurations, multiple demand centers are typically located sparsely near one or more major production facilities, necessitating the development of a coordinated pipeline network. To support such planning, Argonne National Laboratory has developed a computational tool, Pipeline Network Scenario Analysis Model (PNSAM) to optimize hydrogen pipeline infrastructure for both cost and efficiency. The model can connect any number of demand points to one or more production hubs. Rather than routing pipelines along direct geometric paths, it utilizes existing road networks to minimize land acquisition issues and related costs. Cost estimates are generated using regional models based on historical natural gas pipeline data, and a discounted cash flow analysis is applied to evaluate the cost contributions of both pipelines and compression. The model's capabilities are demonstrated through hypothetical scenarios simulating various supply and demand configurations. Read less |
5:30 PM | 7:30 PM | Welcome Reception, jointly with CHS Americas |