(H2) Hydrogen
A colorless, odorless, flammable gas which is compressed to
high pressure. High pressure leaks frequently ignite
spontaneously and burn with a colorless flame.
- Hydrogen is widely used for the
hydrogenation of vegetable and animal oils and fats.
Hydrogen also finds wide use in the metallurgy field
because of its ability to reduce metal oxides and prevent
oxidation of metals in heat treating certain metals and
alloys. Hydrogen finds some usage in the welding and
cutting of metals. Hydrogen is extensively used in the
synthesis of ammonia and in petroleum refining
operations. Liquefied hydrogen has been used as a primary
rocket fuel for combustion with oxygen or fluorine, and
as a propellant for nuclear powered rockets and space
vehicles.
Hydrogen may be commercially prepared by:
1. electrolysis of water which yields hydrogen and
oxygen,
2. electrolysis of brine (sodium chloride) solution which
yields hydrogen, chlorine, and sodium hydroxide solution,
and
3. catalytic decomposition of saturated hydrocarbons.
Hydrogen is stored in cylinders, stationary
tubes, and tube trailers. Liquid hydrogen is commonly
stored at consumer sites in specially designed insulated
tanks. Further information on hydrogen storage is
contained in the N.F.P.A. Bulletins 50A and 50B.
