Hydrogen Works
Flying Hydrogen Leak Detector
Problem statement
Hydrogen gas is increasingly being used in the energy sector as a sustainable energy carrier and fuel source. Low-emissions hydrogen production is expected to quadruple its share of the global energy market by 2030, growth akin to other clean energy sources in recent years (International Energy Agency, 2026). Consuming hydrogen in a fuel cell leaves water as the only product, eliminating the greenhouse gas emissions characteristic of most typical fuel sources. However, hydrogen is extremely difficult to contain due to its nature as the smallest atomic molecule. Pairing its molecular size with hydrogen’s extremely flammable nature when mixed with air, leaks pose a serious hazard to workers and equipment in the energy sector. The Department of Energy needs a device capable of remotely monitoring these leaks to ensure the safety of employees working in close proximity to hydrogen storage or transport mediums. Expanding upon existing laser-camera detection devices for hydrogen leaks and packaging it into a mobile surveillance system therefore provides critical safety measures for people working near these hydrogen pipes. A key step toward this goal is packaging the laser-camera detection system onto a maneuverable drone capable of achieving close-up inspection and identification of hydrogen leaks. By eliminating the need for a human being in physical attendance monitoring leaks, this solution offers a critical step toward the safe identification of hydrogen leaks.
