Francesco Dolci

Magnesium Imide: Synthesis and Structure Determination of an Unconventional Alkaline Earth Imide from Decomposition of Magnesium Amide

Magnesium imide (MgNH) was produced by monitoring the decomposition process of magnesium amide with in situ neutron diffraction. Significant changes in the structure of magnesium amide are detected during heat treatment and eventually result in the formation of crystalline MgNH. A model for the crystal structure of magnesium imide (MgNH) is presented for the first time. Remarkably, magnesium imide offers unique structural features similar to the cyclosilicate class and can be described as a porous solid formed by a sequence of linked chains of face sharing Mg(6)N(6) hexagonal prism clusters.

Fower-to-hydrogen and hydrogen-to-X: Which markets? Which economic potential? Answers from the literature

With the expansion of renewable energys contribution to the energy mix, balancing the electricity grid is becoming increasingly challenging. Alongside other solutions, Power-to-Hydrogen concepts are gaining significant interest. In this paper, the “Task 38”, initiated by the Hydrogen Implementing Agreement of the International Energy Agency, presents the first of a two-step literature review regarding Power-to-Hydrogen and Hydrogen-to-X concepts with a focus on prospective market and economic potential. The study reveals a large scope of literature that shows a considerable variety of suggested implementation schemes. The transportation sector is identified as the most promising consumer market. Hydrogen-to-Gas pathways will require subsidies in order to be profitable. Hydrogen-to-Power becomes an economically promising option in the context of systems with high shares of renewables and a need for longer-term storages. Additionally, key enablers for Power-to-Hydrogen concepts are identified; namely support policies, concurrently with ongoing progress on the development and implementation of industry standard.

Fower-to-hydrogen and hydrogen-to-X pathways: Opportunities for next generation energy systems

Energy systems are evolving rapidly around the world, driven mainly by CO2-e reduction targets. This has led to opportunities for integrated low carbon electricity-and-fuel systems founded on large scale “Power-to-Hydrogen, Hydrogen-to-X” (PtH-HtX). Power-to-Hydrogen (PtH) refers to large scale electrolysis. Hydrogen-to-X (HtX) refers to a range of high value products and services. If these pathways start with low-carbon electricity, then the fuel consumed at the downstream end also low-carbon. Use of intermittently low valued power lowers all production costs. This paper specifically identifies the main pathways and interconnections in a way that overcomes the ambiguities inherent in the term “Power-to-Gas”. In turn, this provides solid and easier to understand foundations for building legal and regulatory frameworks for new business opportunities along the lengths of the numerous pathways from supply to consumption.