In this episode of Energy Matters, Roshan Ramnarain took a deep dive into LAVO’s hydrogen production facility in China. Guided by industry expert Sherry Feng, he explored how raw materials are transformed into a powerful energy storage medium. With global energy systems shifting towards sustainability, hydrogen is emerging as a key pillar in Australia’s renewable future.
Roshan’s journey into the world of hydrogen started at LAVO’s advanced manufacturing plant, where titanium and manganese are refined and combined to form metal hydride ingots. These ingots play a crucial role in hydrogen storage, offering a stable and efficient way to harness energy for future use.
During the visit, we observed the ingot formation process, where high heat and precision engineering shape the raw materials into solid storage units. Once formed, the ingots undergo mechanical fragmentation, a process that involves breaking them into smaller pieces to enhance their ability to absorb and release hydrogen efficiently. This crucial step ensures that hydrogen can be stored safely and extracted on demand.
After the ingots are fragmented, they are placed in specialised storage vessels. Hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, where water molecules are split into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. The extracted hydrogen is then transported and absorbed into the metal hydrides, where it remains locked in a stable state until needed.
Unlike traditional hydrogen storage methods, which require high-pressure tanks or cryogenic freezing, metal hydrides allow for a safer and more compact storage solution. When energy demand rises, the hydrogen is released through desorption, a process where heat or pressure changes trigger the release of stored hydrogen gas. This gas is then directed into a fuel cell, where it reacts with oxygen to generate electricity.
Hydrogen is not just a futuristic concept—it is already beginning to reshape how energy is stored and used across Australia. With increasing investment in green hydrogen projects, industries are exploring how this versatile energy carrier can stabilise the grid, store excess renewable power, and even fuel heavy transport and manufacturing.
LAVO’s technology presents a scalable solution for homes and businesses looking to integrate hydrogen storage into their energy systems. By capturing surplus solar or wind energy and converting it into stored hydrogen, Australia can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and create a more resilient, decentralised energy network.
While challenges remain, such as reducing the cost of green hydrogen production and scaling infrastructure, the momentum is building. Government incentives and international partnerships are driving advancements, positioning Australia as a leader in the global hydrogen economy.
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