Elena Barbera is Assistant Professor (RTDb) at the Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova. After her graduation in Chemical and Process Engineering, she earned a PhD in Industrial engineering focusing on optimization of microalgae production for industrial applications. Her research interests focus on process simulation and techno-economic analysis of chemical and biochemical processes, including microalgae production for various industrial applications, anaerobic digestion for biogas and biomethane production, biological hydrogen production via photofermentation, lignin valorization and bio-based products, carbon capture storage and utilization (CCUS) technologies.
Lecture: Hydrogen economy and the colors of hydrogen
Hydrogen is considered to play a key role as a green energy vector towards energy transition and decarbonization. But how can it be obtained? And does the way it is produced affect its actual environmental impact, compared to fossil fuels? This lecture will address the various technologies and sources (feedstock) available for hydrogen production, each one identified by a color (grey, blue, green, yellow, etc.). In addition, environmental, energetic and economic aspects related to each production route will be discussed and compared.