Introduction
The UK has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and hydrogen is set to play a central role in this transition. From hydrogen storage tanks to refuelling stations and fuel cells, advanced materials are the foundation of the clean energy revolution.
But not all metals can handle hydrogen’s unique challenges. Hydrogen embrittlement, extreme pressures, and corrosive environments require specialised alloys that are strong, safe, and reliable.
At Metallium, we supply a wide range of stainless steels, nickel alloys, titanium, and zirconium that meet the demands of hydrogen and clean energy projects across the UK.
Why Hydrogen Demands Specialised Metals
Hydrogen is the smallest and lightest molecule in the universe, and while it has enormous potential as a clean fuel, it also presents significant engineering challenges:
Hydrogen Embrittlement: Hydrogen atoms can penetrate metals, making them brittle and prone to cracking.
High Pressure & Cryogenic Storage: Hydrogen is often stored at pressures up to 700 bar or at temperatures as low as -253°C. Only certain metals can withstand these conditions safely.
Corrosion Resistance: Metals used in hydrogen production and transport must resist moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperature variations.
This is why traditional steels are not enough—specialised alloys are essential.
Metals Powering the Hydrogen Economy
1. Stainless Steel
Grades such as 304L and 316L stainless steel are widely used in hydrogen pipelines and storage tanks.
Their resistance to corrosion and cracking ensures safety during long-term use.
Ideal for electrolyser components in hydrogen production.
2. Nickel Alloys
Known for their ability to withstand high temperatures and corrosive gases.
Critical in electrolysers, fuel cells, and hydrogen refineries.
Provide long-term durability under extreme thermal cycling.
3. Titanium
Excellent resistance to hydrogen embrittlement.
Lightweight and strong, making it ideal for hydrogen storage tanks and clean energy vehicles.
Used in fuel cells and hydrogen refuelling stations.
4. Zirconium & Tantalum Alloys
Highly resistant to corrosion from acids and aggressive chemicals.
Used in specialised hydrogen production plants and nuclear-linked clean energy systems.
Applications of Metals in UK Clean Energy
Specialised metals supplied by Metallium support a range of hydrogen applications across the UK:
Hydrogen Storage Tanks & Cylinders – Stainless steel, titanium, and nickel alloys for safe, high-pressure containment.
Fuel Cells – Nickel alloys and titanium for durability and efficiency.
Hydrogen Pipelines – Stainless steels and corrosion-resistant alloys.
Electrolysers – Specialised stainless steel and nickel for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen.
Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure – High-strength alloys for pumps, tanks, and pipelines.
Why the UK Energy Sector Needs Reliable Metal Supply
The UK is investing heavily in clean energy projects, with billions allocated to:
Hydrogen hubs in Teesside, Aberdeen, and South Wales.
Hydrogen buses, trains, and trucks to decarbonise transport.
Hydrogen-ready power plants and blending hydrogen into natural gas pipelines.
For these projects to succeed, the supply of certified, high-performance metals is critical. Delays or poor-quality materials can set projects back months or even years.
Metallium: Your Partner for Clean Energy Metals
At Metallium, we work with energy companies, infrastructure developers, and engineers across the UK to deliver metals built for the hydrogen economy.
What we offer:
Certified Metals – Meeting ASTM, EN, and ISO standards for energy projects.
Hydrogen-Ready Alloys – Stainless steel, titanium, nickel alloys, and zirconium.
Custom Orders – Sheets, plates, rods, tubes, coils, and precision machining.
Fast UK Delivery – From our Oxfordshire warehouse to energy hubs nationwide.
Technical Expertise – Support on grade selection and material performance.
Case Example: Hydrogen Refuelling Stations
Hydrogen refuelling stations require storage tanks, compressors, and dispensers that can operate under intense pressure and temperature extremes. Using 316L stainless steel and titanium alloys ensures long-term safety and compliance with international standards.
Metallium supplies energy companies with metals designed for this infrastructure, supporting the UK’s rollout of hydrogen-powered transport.
The Future of Metals in Clean Energy
As the UK scales up its hydrogen economy, demand for specialised metals will continue to rise. Key trends include:
Hydrogen-Powered Aviation: Titanium and nickel alloys for lightweight, high-performance aircraft components.
Green Hydrogen Production: Stainless steel and nickel alloys for large-scale electrolysers.
Hydrogen Storage Innovations: New alloy designs for safer, higher-capacity storage tanks.
Carbon-Neutral Transport: Stainless steel and titanium for buses, trains, and HGV fuel systems.
Conclusion
Hydrogen and clean energy represent the future of the UK energy sector, and specialised metals are at the heart of this transformation. Without stainless steels, titanium, nickel alloys, and zirconium, hydrogen storage, refuelling, and fuel cells simply wouldn’t be possible.
At Metallium, we are committed to supplying the UK’s clean energy innovators with the high-quality metals they need to build a sustainable future.
📞 Looking for a reliable UK supplier of hydrogen-ready metals?
Contact Metallium today to discuss your clean energy project requirements.