Simultaneous Thermal Analysis 
 

H₂Secure Concept

Safe Examination of Materials Under Hydrogen 

Thermal Analysis under Hydrogen

The Key to a Better Understanding of Material Interactions

Hydrogen (H2) is gaining attention for its potential role in sustainable practices and green technology. Research into the interaction of materials with hydrogen is critical for developing eco-friendly solutions that can significantly reduce environmental impact.

One notable application is the use of hydrogen to mitigate high CO2 emissions from metallurgical processes through direct reduction, such as in iron ore reduction. Chemical hydrogen storage, particularly through the use of metal hydrides, is another important avenue of research. Scientists are working to enhance volumetric and gravimetric capacities, as well as hydrogen adsorption/desorption kinetics and the life cycle of potential material candidates. Improving these aspects of materials can lead to more efficient and practical hydrogen storage solutions, which are vital for various applications including transportation, energy storage, and renewable energy systems.

Safe Measurements in Reducing or Oxidizing Atmospheres

The H2Secure concept developed by NETZSCH features a complete solution for conducting tests in environments with varying concentrations of hydrogen while providing utmost safety. This concept enables safe experimentation in a 100% H2 environment or with lower concentrations of H2 mixed with non-flammable gases such as nitrogen (N2) or argon (Ar) atmospheres. This flexibility is achieved through a comprehensive safety protocol embedded in the system.

One of the key features of the H2Secure concept is its ability to seamlessly perform complex OxidationOxidation can describe different processes in the context of thermal analysis.oxidation-reduction cycles. This involves switching between hydrogen- and oxygen-containing atmospheres within a single measurement, allowing for precise analysis of reaction kinetics and material behavior under different conditions. During these tests, it is crucial to maintain safety at all times. Therefore, in an intermediate state, the sample and testing apparatus are purged with inert gas. This purging process continues until safe conditions are reached for a gas change, minimizing any potential risks associated with handling hydrogen or oxygen.

Method

Simultaneous Thermogravimetry – Differential Scanning Calorimetry

The simultaneous application of Thermogravimetry (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) to a single sample in an STA instrument yields more information than separate application in two different instruments:

Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) is based on standards, e.g., ISO 11358, ASTM E793, DIN 51004, DIN 51006, DIN 51007. It generally refers to the simultaneous application of Thermogravimetry (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) to one and the same sample in a single instrument.

H2Secure Concept

  • The volume of H2 is precisely regulated by introducing hydrogen at the top of the furnace and confining it to a defined space above the continuously purged balance chamber.
     
  • Gas concentrations of H2 and O2 are continuously measured for safe handling.
     
  • The central communication unit, the H2Secure box, processes the overall information and controls the gas flows on the basis of pre-defined safety limits.
     
  • Fail-safe operation is achieved by opening the magnetic valves in the event of a power failure, thus releasing an inert gas that removes the hydrogen from the system.

Specifications

 H₂Secure for STA 449/509
Furnace type supporting H₂ measurementsSiC
Temperature rangeRT to 1600°C
Sensor types* 
  • TGA
  • TGA-DTA
  • TGA-DSC
Thermocouple types*
  • P
  • S
  • B
Sensor type for reduction experiments onlyW
Optional 4-fold MFCPossible switching between hydrogen and air atmospheres in one measurement
Hydrogen supply

 
Supplied by the operator, e.g., hydrogen generator, H₂ cylinder
H₂ and O₂ measuring cell Included 
H₂Secure Box  Included
Optional gas outlet treatment H₂ dilution
Upgrade of existing STA 449Possible

* Possibility of reduced life time depending on experimental parameters

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Upgrade for the STA 449 Series 

The H2Secure concept is readily accessible for all instruments of the STA 449 and 509 series, offering the flexibility of upgrading existing instruments. Upgraded instruments retain their complete functionality while also enabling safe operations with hydrogen. The upgrade encompasses all essential components and can be conveniently performed on-site by our service team.