How Explosive Is Hydrogen?

Hydrogen is a viable fuel alternative for vehicles.

Hydrogen has been perceived by the public as a dangerous and explosive gas. Most other fuels are explosive as well, but hydrogen has certain properties that make it safer, in some cases, and which actually make it preferable over other gases by industrial companies. Hydrogen is also the most prevalent element, making up more than 90 percent of atoms in the universe.

Identification

Hydrogen is most explosive in confined spaces, and can detonate only if mixed with air or oxygen. In open areas, an explosion is almost impossible because the gas has such a high dispersion coefficient. This also allows a hydrogen fire to burn out faster than one with gasoline or methane.

Features

Dispersion is quick when hydrogen spills, and it has a low density. It does not cover the ground the way gasoline does. The explosion hazard does not last for more than a few seconds after a spill if it occurs.

Misconceptions

There is no risk to the environment from hydrogen, because it is not toxic or corrosive. It is not any more dangerous than gasoline, natural gas or kerosene, based on testing. Most public discontent with hydrogen stems from the Hindenburg explosion in 1937, but the detonation was found to be caused by the paint coating the outside of the balloon.

References

• E-sources: Hydrogen Safety
• Los Alamos National Laboratory Chemistry Division, Hydrogen

Resources

• U.S. Department of Energy: Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center