ABSTRACT
Hydrogen as the smallest atom can easily be incorporated into other molecules. In most cases this incorporation defines the burning value of the compound. The carbon chain of gasoline molecules increases in burning value for increased number of hydrogen atoms. In the production of hydrogen from coal one has to eliminate such by-products as sulfur dioxide and ashes. As a consequence, the electrolytic production of hydrogen is the best way to arrive at pure hydrogen and at high efficiency. Methods for hydrogen liquefication are well developed and used industrially. The Linde-Hampson process, the Claude process, and magneto-thermodynamic processes are all explored industrially. The electrochemical potential of suitable electrolytes and cell configuration is used to measure the partial hydrogen pressure at the interface between the electrolyte and the solid hydride electrode. The electrolyte in this case is a low-melting organometallic salt of high ionic conductivity to avoid formation of oxides and hydroxides.
