Hydrogen is a key energy carrier for modern society. The breaking of the hydrogen bonds within traditional hydrocarbon molecules has been the primary mode of energy utilization since the industrial revolution. An increased focus on “net-zero” greenhouse gas emissions, specifically carbon dioxide and methane, has resulted in a global push for lower carbon energy vectors, including pure hydrogen.

Natural gas distribution companies are developing ambitious plans to decarbonize the services that they provide in an affordable manner and are accelerating plans for the strategic integration of renewable natural gas and the blending of green hydrogen produced by electrolysis, powered with renewable electricity being developed from large new commitments by states such as New York and Massachusetts. The demonstration and deployment of hydrogen blending have been proposed broadly at 20% of hydrogen by volume.

It has been suggested that separation or safety distances for pressurised hydrogen storage can be reduced by the inclusion of walls or barriers between the hydrogen storage and vulnerable plant or other items. Various NFPA codes [1] suggest the use of 60
inclined fire barriers for protection against jet flames in preference to vertical ones. Work by Sandia National Laboratories [2] included experiments and modeling aimed at characterisation of the effectiveness of barrier walls at reducing hazards.