Finite element-based simulation of a metal hydride-based hydrogen storage tank

In this paper, a novel 3D flexible tool for simulation of metal hydrides-based (LaNi 5) hydrogen storage tanks is presented. The model is Finite Element-Based and considers coupled heat and mass transfer resistance through a non-uniform pressure and temperature metal hydride reactor. The governing e...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of hydrogen energy 2009-10, Vol.34 (20), p.8574-8582
Main Authors: Freni, A., Cipitì, F., Cacciola, G.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Alternative fuels. Production and utilization
Applied sciences
Computer simulation
Cooling
Energy
Exact sciences and technology
Finite difference analysis
Fuels
Hydrogen
Hydrogen storage
Mathematical analysis
Mathematical models
Metal hydride
Reactors
Storage tanks
Tanks
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Summary:In this paper, a novel 3D flexible tool for simulation of metal hydrides-based (LaNi 5) hydrogen storage tanks is presented. The model is Finite Element-Based and considers coupled heat and mass transfer resistance through a non-uniform pressure and temperature metal hydride reactor. The governing equations were implemented and solved using the COMSOL Multiphysics simulation environment. A cylindrical reactor with different cooling system designs was simulated. The shortest reactor fill time (15 min) was obtained for a cooling design configuration consisting of twelve inner cooling tubes and an external cooling jacket. Additional simulations demonstrated that an increase of the hydride thermal conductivity can further improve the reactor dynamic performance, provided that the absorbent bed is sufficiently permeable to hydrogen.
ISSN:0360-3199
1879-3487
DOI:10.1016/j.ijhydene.2009.07.118