Hydrogen compression is a crucial stage in its value chain, as it optimises storage, transport and distribution, especially in applications such as HRS, as you will know if you have read our other articles Hydrogen Infrastructure in Heavy Mobility in Spain and HRS with CGH2 vs HRS with LH2. Hydrogen compression consists of increasing its pressure to facilitate its storage and transport, adapting to the needs of each project. However, this process poses technical and economic challenges, which has driven the development of innovative compression technologies. In this article, we will explore the two technologies used for hydrogen compression: mechanical compressors, widely used in industry, and electrochemical compression, an emerging alternative.
Mechanical compressors are the predominant technology for hydrogen compression, with three main types standing out. Piston compressors, which compress gas through the reciprocating motion of a piston, offer high compression capacity and commercial availability, although they require greater maintenance due to wear and lubrication. Diaphragm compressors, with a design that prevents contact between the gas and moving parts, are more expensive. Finally, centrifugal compressors are ideal for large volumes at low and medium pressure. In the market, piston compressors account for 50%, centrifugal compressors for 30%, and diaphragm compressors for 20%.
Electrochemical compression is a technology that uses electrochemical cells to compress hydrogen by applying an electric current. This system is ideal for processes that require hydrogen purification and compression. Unlike mechanical compressors, electrochemical compression has no moving parts, which reduces noise, friction losses and maintenance costs.
One of the key advantages of electrochemical compressors is their ability to handle hydrogen with an associated percentage of moisture, unlike mechanical compressors, which require virtually dry hydrogen to operate properly. However, although electrochemical systems are more tolerant of moisture, this is a critical factor. Water is essential for maintaining the conductivity of the membrane. If there is too little moisture, the membrane loses efficiency and deteriorates more quickly. Conversely, excess water can flood the electrodes and cause the membrane to swell (a phenomenon called ‘swelling’), which decreases performance.
Lean Hydrogen is at the forefront of developing electrochemical hydrogen compression technologies. Thanks to the support of the Andalusian Technology Corporation (CTA), we have conducted a feasibility study on this technology, exploring its potential to improve efficiency and reduce maintenance costs compared to traditional mechanical compressors, which is the first step on the road to our own prototype.
Hydrogen compression is an essential component in the hydrogen value chain, enabling its storage and transport. At Lean Hydrogen, we are experts in designing and implementing solutions based on knowledge and experience for hydrogen compression and handling, adapting to the needs of each project. If you are considering integrating hydrogen into your processes or projects, contact us and we will do it for you!
Date: 22/09/2025
Author: Christian Preciado Cárdenas
Reviewer: Eugenio Trillo León
