Low-carbon hydrogen carriers and derivatives: Multicriteria prioritization of routes for Brazil

The transition to low-carbon hydrogen systems requires robust comparisons of alternative carriers and derivatives that integrate technical, economic, environmental, and institutional dimensions. This study evaluates fifteen non-fossil hydrogen carriers and derivatives in Brazil, including ammonia, methanol, liquid organic hydrogen carriers, compressed hydrogen, synthetic methane, and sustainable aviation fuels. A multicriteria decision analysis framework combines Entropy and CRITIC weighting with TOPSIS and PROMETHEE II ranking across nine criteria covering emissions, costs, efficiency, technological maturity, energy demand, infrastructure compatibility, logistics, and regulatory alignment. Results reveal a stable core of leading routes, especially ammonia- and biomass-based pathways, compressed hydrogen, and bio-methanol, consistently balancing low emissions, competitive costs, and high readiness levels. Liquid routes benefit from Brazil's fuel and port infrastructure, while electro-intensive options gain relevance as renewable electricity costs decline. The proposed framework provides transparent, replicable support for strategic investment and policy decisions in hydrogen energy systems.