The way hydrogen is being looked at in South Korea has changed dramatically. A breakthrough that has resulted in a different colored hydrogen that is cheaper to produce than most. This is more than just a revelation for how clean energy is looked at in the world, but this also poses a threat to the strides being taken in America.
A new era and shade for hydrogen in Korea
Pioneering researchers unveiled this new development to much praise. A high efficiency methane pyrolysis process that captures hydrogen but eliminates any carbon dioxide. The process sees hydrogen converted to methane and solid carbon using immense heat. The more traditional process emits carbon dioxide at this point.
The production costs are also significantly lower which makes the prospect all the more tantalizing. This new process will also enable large scale production which could see turquoise hydrogen used in a variety of ways that could change and optimize a plethora of industries.
What makes turquoise hydrogen different
Hydrogen is often ranked by colour ranging green to blue and grey, all of which is hinged on how it is made. Green hydrogen remains costly to produce as renewable electricity is used in this process to split water. Blue hydrogen using carbon capture from natural gas still involves CO2 being emitted.
Korea’s turquoise hydrogen however is an entirely different matter. It is derived from methane, but no carbon dioxide is produced. Instead, the process yields solid carbon which can be used in a myriad of industries from mining to battery power. The allure for hydrogen that costs as little as this to produce is particularly appealing for countries still dependant on fossil fuels.
Korea quietly enters the race for hydrogen innovation
The United States has been leading the way when it comes to hydrogen development. An outlook propped up by such things as the Inflation Reduction Act and plentiful subsidies from the federal government with its Earthshot program firmly in place. This latest turquoise colored development from South Korea puts a different complexion on things.
If all matters that pertain to Korea expanding this technology rapidly, are dealt with as speedily as needed, this small nation could easily start to export on a large scale and at cheaper prices. With this turquoise hydrogen they will surely be able to offer better hydrogen investments than America especially to markets closer to Korea.
Green hydrogen remains the focus for America despite the vast expenses involved but this could present a problem if Korea’s turquoise hydrogen is pushed out the door quickly. It is more pioneering and modular which lends itself well to scale and industrial efficiency. Korea is also free of the burden of legacy and extensive bureaucracy to contend with as is the case in more inflated economies.
What this could mean for the United States of America
High-cost renewable hydrogen will come under the scope should South Korea be able to cement its turquoise hydrogen. This won’t be excellent for America. The Unites States of America has placed belief in green hydrogen being the answer to some of it decarbonization desires.
A change in tack may need to be considered if energy partners start to view South Korea’s exploits in a more favourable light. This could have an impact on American supply chains. This is of course if Korea ensures that their turquoise hydrogen is as cheap to produce and as clean as they say.
Hydrogen may still be a burgeoning field of energy, but breakthroughs can happen quickly. If Korea is able to make the most of this prospect, this moment could be viewed with much reverence when the global story of clean energy is recounted.
