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National Gas has contracted Penspen to assess the potential of oxygen dosing to mitigate hydrogen embrittlement in pipelines, supporting the development of a national hydrogen transmission network. The project, funded by Ofgem's Network Innovation Allowance, aims to determine if oxygen can effectively inhibit embrittlement.

Penspen will also explore alternative gas inhibitors and the design of an oxygen dosing system for the hydrogen network. The initiative is part of the broader effort to develop a 1,500-mile hydrogen transmission system using repurposed natural gas pipelines.

Hydrogen embrittlement poses significant challenges, as it degrades steel properties and limits operational capabilities. Successful implementation of this technology could enhance pipeline pressure flexibility and network efficiency.