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Tüv publishes leaflet on hydrogen

TÜV association warns of hydrogen embrittlement - new leaflet gives experts clear recommendations for the safe operation of hydrogen systems

21.10.2025

Source: E & M powernews

Metals react to hydrogen. The Tüv Association issues clear recommendations for safe system operation.

The Tüv Association in Berlin has published the chargeable information sheet 1276 entitled "Damage to metallic materials due to the influence of gaseous hydrogen - introduction for experts". It is aimed at experts in the planning, testing and operation of hydrogen systems.

This is because many of the regulations in force to date date from a time when mainly conventional gases were used and take insufficient account of the special properties of hydrogen. With the increasing use of this energy source, new technical requirements are emerging to which standardization and practice must gradually adapt.

The information sheet summarizes the current state of technical knowledge and supplements existing regulations with practical recommendations for action. The aim is to provide experts with clear guidance in order to increase the safety of hydrogen systems, according to Tüv.

A question of materials

Handling gaseous hydrogen puts materials to a particular stress test. If the gas penetrates a metal, the tiny hydrogen atoms are deposited between the metal atoms. This changes the internal structure: the material becomes more brittle, loses strength and can suddenly fail under stress. Hydrogen can also have an effect on weld seams. Cracks tend to form there under stress - an effect that experts refer to as stress corrosion cracking, according to Tüv.

"Hydrogen can change and weaken metals over time," explains Ingo Blohm, a consultant for quality requirements and steam boiler systems at the Tüv association. "This can cause pipes and tanks to crack, leak or, in the worst case, break." The information sheet describes how suitable materials can be selected and tested in order to operate hydrogen systems safely.

"The question of materials is one of the factors that will determine the success of the hydrogen economy," says Blohm. "Our aim is to translate the technical knowledge into clear recommendations for safe plant operation."

Author: Stefan Sagmeister