Hydrogen (H2)

Industrially produced by reforming hydrocarbons – natural gas steam reforming – hydrogen (H2) – also called dihydrogen – is mainly used to remove sulfur from petroleum fuels and to produce ammonia. It is also considered as the fuel of the future (fuel cells). It is primarily released while charging batteries or during welding.

Hydrogen gas Hazards

Hydrogen (H2) is extremely flammable (R12) with wide explosive limits between 4 and 75% volume. As it is particularly lightweight, major hydrogen gas hazards are the replacement of oxygen in suspended ceilings and other high up confined spaces. Colorless and odorless, its presence cannot be detected without proper equipment. Even if it is not toxic, high concentrations of hydrogen will reduce the oxygen rate, which can lead to asphyxia. For all these reasons it is important to use an hydrogen monitor to detect dangerous concentrations.