DuPont Advances Hydrogen Technologies with Contamination-Free Lubricant

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DuPont’s announcement that its MOLYKOTE® HP-300 Grease has met the hydrogen purity standards outlined in ISO 14687:2019 is a significant development for advancing hydrogen energy technologies. The lubricant’s rigorous testing, conducted in collaboration with HyCentA Research GmbH, demonstrated its compatibility with high-pressure hydrogen environments. MOLYKOTE® underwent weeks of exposure to hydrogen at 700 bar, followed by an extensive analysis of gas and particle contamination. The results showed no significant contamination, affirming its suitability for critical applications like fuel cell stacks, where hydrogen purity is essential.

Maintaining hydrogen purity is vital for the safety and performance of hydrogen-powered systems. Even trace contaminants, at concentrations as low as four parts per billion, can compromise the efficiency and reliability of fuel cells, leading to potential operational failures. MOLYKOTE® HP-300 addresses this issue by providing a lubricant solution that minimizes the risk of contamination, ensuring the integrity of hydrogen in applications such as seals and threaded connections. This capability is particularly important as the industry seeks to expand hydrogen storage and transport infrastructure, where every component must meet stringent performance standards.

In addition to ensuring hydrogen purity, MOLYKOTE® HP-300 offers several features that enhance its functionality in demanding environments. It resists hydrogen embrittlement and a wide range of chemicals while maintaining excellent performance in low temperatures as extreme as -40°C. These characteristics make it a reliable choice for applications such as vehicle refueling stations, where harsh conditions and operational precision are critical. Its compatibility with a wide array of substrates, including most elastomers and plastics, further underscores its versatility in diverse hydrogen energy applications.

Hydrogen is a cornerstone of the global energy transition, offering a zero-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. However, its success depends on overcoming challenges like contamination in storage and transportation systems. 

Environment + Energy Leader