| Abstract | Liquid hydrogen (LH₂) is emerging as a key enabler in the global clean energy transition, offering a viable pathway for decarbonizing sectors such as transportation, heavy industry, and power generation. This report provides a comprehensive overview of LH₂’s technological maturity, storage and handling systems, safety protocols, and infrastructure development. It highlights LH₂’s advantages as a high‑energy‑density fuel that supports long‑distance and large‑scale applications while addressing challenges related to cost, efficiency, and safety. Advances in cryogenic storage—originating from NASA’s research—have led to near‑zero boil‑off tanks and improved materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions. The report also discusses the importance of ortho‑para hydrogen conversion, advanced insulation systems, and efficient cryogenic pumping technologies that enhance refuelling performance. Globally, LH₂ infrastructure development is progressing unevenly, with Europe, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Canada demonstrating varying levels of policy and technological readiness. The findings underscore that while LH₂ is technically mature, its economic viability depends on reducing liquefaction energy use, improving storage performance, and standardizing refuelling systems. Continued innovation and coordinated policy action will be crucial for LH₂ to play a central role in achieving global net‑zero objectives. |
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