Liquid hydrogen storage and regasification process integrated with LNG, NGL, and liquid helium production

Hydrogen (H₂) is a clean energy carrier and has recently gained significant attention. Efforts are being made to promote liquid hydrogen (LH₂) owing to its long-time storage, transportation, and high-purity end-use requirements. LH₂ storage and regasification is an essential step in the H₂ supply chain. This study proposes a novel integrated energy system that produces liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas liquids (NGL), and liquid helium (LHe) utilizing the cold energy of LH₂. A well-known process simulation software (Aspen Hysys® v11) is employed to simulate the integrated process. The optimal design variables are found through the Aspen Hysys® built-in Mixed optimization technique. The optimal design shows a specific energy consumption of 0.347 kWh/kg with exergy destruction of 43.3 MW. The required volume of the spherical tank for LH₂ storage is 6.3 m³. The results of the lifecycle cost analysis show that the Levelized cost of producing LNG, NGL, and LHe is 0.50 USD/kg, 0.56 USD/kg, and 98.0 USD/kg, respectively. The conclusion of this study suggests that the proposed process can improve the overall H₂ supply chain by effectively utilizing LH₂ for LNG, NGL, and LHe production.