- System:
Merchant:
The merchant system segment of the hydrogen generation market includes companies that produce and sell hydrogen to other industries and sectors. These companies typically use large-scale hydrogen production facilities and distribute the gas through pipelines or other means.
Captive:
The captive system segment of the hydrogen generation market consists of companies that produce hydrogen for their own use, typically as a byproduct of another industrial process. These companies may use small-scale hydrogen production facilities located onsite at their facilities.
- Technology:
Steam Methane Reforming:
The steam methane reforming technology segment of the hydrogen generation market is the most widely used method for producing hydrogen on an industrial scale. This process involves reacting steam with natural gas to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide.
Coal Gasification:
The coal gasification technology segment of the hydrogen generation market involves converting coal into a synthesis gas, which is then further processed to produce hydrogen. This method is less commonly used than steam methane reforming but offers an alternative source of hydrogen.
- Application:
Various applications of hydrogen include refining, ammonia production, methanol production, transportation, and power generation. Each of these applications has specific requirements for the purity and quantity of hydrogen needed.
- Source:
Hydrogen can be sourced from natural gas, coal, biomass, or water. The choice of source can impact the cost and environmental footprint of hydrogen production. Natural gas is currently the most common source of hydrogen, but there is increasing interest in producing hydrogen from renewable sources such as water through electrolysis.