Magnesium-based hydrogen storage tanks: A review of research, development and simulation models
Longfei Shao, Xi Lin, Xue Yang, Yingyan Zhao, Jiaqi Zhang, Tao Cheng, Jianxin Zou
Abstract
Hydrogen energy has been regarded as the ideal energy carrier to realize global renewable and sustainable development. However, achieving large-scale hydrogen storage is still challenging due to hydrogen's intrinsic properties of low density, flammability , and high diffusivity . Mg-based metal hydrides (MHs) are a series of potential materials to store hydrogen safely with high volumetric/gravimetric hydrogen storage density. Recently, hydrogen storage and transportation trailers and hydrogen-electric energy storage systems using Mg-based MHs have emerged as new solutions. Mg-based MHs are filled in the tank in powder form, which will result in poor heat and mass transfer characteristics of the MH bed. In addition, a large amount of heat involved during hydrogen sorption will lead to the non-uniform and fluctuating temperature and pressure in the solid-state hydrogen storage tank (HST). Thus, how to design a high-performance HST is still the key to the application of MHs. For a long time, many models have been proposed to predict the designed HST using simulation methods. However, it is difficult for researchers to identify a suitable and simplified model to design the HST. This work reviews from Mg-based MHs to HSTs, especially the numerical model of HSTs and thermal management strategies. A comprehensive workflow model is proposed for HST design and application. Then, some practical applications, as well as challenges and prospects for Mg-based HSTs are presented. This review will help to accelerate the design and application of HST, thereby actively support the development of hydrogen energy.