Dynamic simulation of a sustainable hydrogen purification and storage system using gas from sludge-based dark fermentation for fuel cell applications

The growing global demand for sustainable energy solutions positions hydrogen as a crucial element in decarbonizing various industrial and transportation sectors. This thesis presents a dynamic simulation study of a hydrogen purification and storage system that utilizes gas from sludge-based dark fermentation for fuel cell applications. The study explores biohydrogen production from wastewater sludge, emphasizing its role in sustainability and the circular economy. The purification system consists of a two-stage process: condensation for water vapor removal and Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) for separating hydrogen from impurities. The process model includes cooling, separation, and heating units, as well as adsorption columns filled with zeolite and activated carbon to target contaminants like CO₂, N₂, CH₄, and O₂. The purified hydrogen is compressed using a multi-stage system and stored in high-pressure composite cylinders. Dynamic simulations assess performance, focusing on hydrogen recovery efficiency, purity levels, and energy consumption. Results show that the system achieves high hydrogen purity, effective water removal exceeding 97%, and strong energy management, making it suitable for Solid Oxide and Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells.Future work will involve experimental validation, optimization of operational parameters, and a techno-economic analysis for full-scale implementation, advancing low-carbon hydrogen production pathways, and supporting renewable energy integration.