What Is Used For

What Is Hydrogen Used For

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Hydrogen is widely used across multiple industries for its versatility and clean energy potential[1].

  • Oil Refining: Hydrogen is used to remove sulfur and other impurities from crude oil, producing cleaner fuels like gasoline and diesel[3].
  • Ammonia Production: Hydrogen is a key component in making ammonia, which is essential for fertilizer production; over half of global hydrogen output is used for this[3].
  • Methanol Production: Hydrogen is used in the formation of methanol, which serves as a base for chemicals and plastics[3].
  • Metals Processing: Hydrogen finds uses in treating metals, such as in annealing, welding, metal alloying, and corrosion prevention[7].
  • Glass and Electronics Manufacturing: Hydrogen acts as a protective or reducing gas, essential for preventing oxidation and ensuring product purity[7].
  • Food Industry: Hydrogen is used to hydrogenate unsaturated fats, producing margarine and other hydrogenated oils[5].
  • Energy Storage and Power Generation: Hydrogen can be used in fuel cells and turbines to produce electricity, offering a clean alternative with only water as a byproduct[2].
  • Transportation: Hydrogen powers fuel cell vehicles (cars, buses, trucks, industrial forklifts, trains, and even planes), emitting only water and heat[1].
  • Chemical Industry: Used as a feedstock for synthesizing various chemicals, including those for making plastics[8].
  • Healthcare: Used in sterilization processes in hospitals and laboratories[2].
  • Horticulture and Agriculture: Used for enriching greenhouse air to promote plant growth[2].
  • Space and Aerospace: Hydrogen is used as rocket fuel due to its high energy content[5].
  • Generator Coolant: Hydrogen is used for cooling power station generators due to its high thermal conductivity[1].

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