Materials challenges in hydrogen-fuelled gas turbines

Abstract

With the increased pressure to decarbonise the power generation sector several gas turbine manufacturers are working towards increasing the hydrogen-firing capabilities of their engines towards 100%. In this review, we discuss the potential materials challenges of gas turbines fuelled with hydrogen, provide an updated overview of the most promising alloys and coatings for this application, and highlight topics requiring further research and development. Particular focus is given to the high-temperature oxidation of gas turbine materials exposed to hydrogen and steam at elevated temperatures and to the corrosion challenges of parts fabricated by additive manufacturing. Other degradation mechanisms such as hot corrosion, the dual atmosphere effect and hydrogen diffusion in the base alloys are also discussed.