Seals for hydrogen

Seals for hydrogen technology – challenges and development

Hydrogen is increasingly seen as a promising energy carrier of the future. From production as “green hydrogen” to storage, transportation and conversion into electrical energy, there are numerous aspects that are the focus of politics, research and industry. An essential component of these hydrogen technologies are specialized hydrogen seals that ensure the safe and efficient handling of this volatile gas.

Hydrogen permeation – the right seal is crucial

One of the biggest technical challenges when dealing with hydrogen is plastic permeation. Hydrogen molecules are small and easily diffuse through many common sealing materials. This poses a significant safety risk and also leads to losses of the valuable energy carrier. In view of this, it is crucial that seals used for hydrogen prevent the gas from dissipating.

Materials for hydrogen seals – why choose a PCTFE seal?

The search for suitable sealing materials that meet the requirements of hydrogen technology is complex. Conventional materials such as elastomers or modified PTFE often do not offer the required tightness against hydrogen permeation. Due to its diffusion-resistant properties, PCTFE (polychlorotrifluoroethylene) is seen as a promising solution. It remains elastic even at extremely low temperatures and is significantly more diffusion-resistant than PTFE. These properties make it particularly suitable for low-temperature applications, such as in cryogenics.

Low temperature & explosive decompression – challenges for hydrogen seals

The requirements for hydrogen seals are further reinforced by extreme conditions such as high pressures and low temperatures. Elastomers that become brittle at -55 °C are therefore unsuitable for cryogenic applications. Although PTFE materials do not become brittle, they are not suitable due to their high porosity and associated permeation. The risk of explosive decompression, when hydrogen is stored in the material under high pressure and can lead to the destruction of the seal if the pressure drops, also poses a considerable risk.

Hydrogen resistant materials and technological innovations

Despite the challenges mentioned above, progress is being made in the development of hydrogen seals. Advances in polymer technology and machining technology are enabling the production of high-precision seals for hydrogen that meet specific requirements. In summary, the efficiency of sealing technology is a decisive factor for the success of hydrogen technologies. Still, it is necessary to overcome existing technical challenges and develop safe and effective solutions using innovative materials and manufacturing processes. Work on hydrogen seals remains a dynamic and critical field that will make a decisive contribution to establishhydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier of the future.

Our expertise for your sealing technology application

Our dedicated engineers look forward to using their extensive expertise and know-how to provide you with the ideal sealing solution. Let us work with you in the early development phase to ensure the synergistic interaction of all components to create cost-effective solutions. Of course, we are also happy to assist you in advanced project phases and offer customized solutions that can be integrated seamlessly. Maximum performance and long durability of the seals are our aim. Thanks to our many years of experience in the chemical industry, we develop individual designs for a wide range of seals. Whether for valves, compressors, pumps or motors – even in the demanding field of hydrogen seals, we offer you custom-made, efficient solutions.