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Rhoda Afriyie Mensah, researcher at Luleå University of Technology, has mapped safety risks and research gaps across the hydrogen value chain in a new report.
21 November 2025
Hydrogen research gaps highlighted in new report
A new report from Luleå University of Technology identifies risks in the hydrogen value chain, the reliability of mitigation strategies and shows where more research is needed. The report was produced on behalf of the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, MSB.
“Hydrogen is a highly versatile and for the environment very important gas. When used, it produces only water vapor and not CO2. It can be used in so many different sectors, in transportation, as a process chemical in industry, etcetera, says Rhoda Afriyie Mensah, researcher in Fire Technology at Luleå University of Technology.
In Centre for Hydrogen Energy Systems Sweden, CH2ESS at Luleå University of Technology, there are more than 100 researchers working on different areas regarding hydrogen.
“Hydrogen has its safety challenges as can also be seen in for instance methane and other gases that are already in use. Hydrogen is not new, it has been used in industry for 100 years. The industry knows the safety practices and guidelines. However, more research is needed to optimize the solutions”, says Rhoda Afriyie Mensah.
The report shows that the general knowledge on hydrogen safety is marked by an imbalance. In some cases, the risks are overstated; in others, they are downplayed.
“There is extensive research on hydrogen as an energy carrier, but safety aspects have not been fully captured. To build hydrogen infrastructure in a more sustainable way, we need a continuous understanding of the risks involved,” says Rhoda Afriyie Mensah.
One specific challenge is that hydrogen flames can be nearly invisible in daylight. In case of an incident, this is a challenge for workers and rescue services who may find it difficult to respond quickly and safely.
At the same time, there is already a wide range of sensors and technical systems available for detecting leaks. However, since their performance varies depending on environment and placement, the industry involved with hydrogen are constantly updating their knowledge as technology evolves.
“This shows how important it is not only to develop new solutions but also to evaluate and standardise them, and this is where we need more research” says Rhoda Afriyie Mensah.
Despite billions being invested in hydrogen projects, some research gaps continuously remain. Companies are experienced in handling hydrogen, but more effort needs to be made through research.
“Hydrogen can play a key role in the energy transition. With more research we could support the industry in optimizing safety and design solutions” says Rhoda Afriyie Mensah.
Contact
Rhoda Afriyie Mensah
- Senior Lecturer
- 0920-491374
- rhoda.afriyie.mensah@ltu.se
- Rhoda Afriyie Mensah
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