Abstract Title
Advanced Manufacturing for Bulk Hydrogen Storage
Additional Funding Sources
This project was supported by the CAES AMSEF REU, ESTRADA, Idaho State University, Mashal, Savage, and Kunal.
Abstract
The need for clean energy sources is increasing as fossil fuels are depleting and contributing to climate change. Hydrogen can be one clean energy source; moving to a “hydrogen economy” is possible. However, hydrogen production, distribution, and storage must be improved. Compressed hydrogen gas is a notoriously difficult substance to store. H2 is a very small molecule and it will permeate through tanks made of steel and other materials. Compressed hydrogen gas storage also requires pressure vessels to operate at very high pressures ( > 2500Psi) to store any meaningful amount of hydrogen. Advanced Manufacturing is the use of advanced materials, methods, or technologies in manufacturing (e.g. Carbon Fiber, 3D Printing). The goal of the project was to investigate the potential of using advanced manufacturing techniques to construct a 1100LbH2 (~500kg) hydrogen storage tank made with a hydrogen resistant inner liner and pre-tensioned Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) reinforcement. (fig.1) These techniques and materials could lead to improved storage capabilities and reduced cost in comparison to other tank designs.
Advanced Manufacturing for Bulk Hydrogen Storage
The need for clean energy sources is increasing as fossil fuels are depleting and contributing to climate change. Hydrogen can be one clean energy source; moving to a “hydrogen economy” is possible. However, hydrogen production, distribution, and storage must be improved. Compressed hydrogen gas is a notoriously difficult substance to store. H2 is a very small molecule and it will permeate through tanks made of steel and other materials. Compressed hydrogen gas storage also requires pressure vessels to operate at very high pressures ( > 2500Psi) to store any meaningful amount of hydrogen. Advanced Manufacturing is the use of advanced materials, methods, or technologies in manufacturing (e.g. Carbon Fiber, 3D Printing). The goal of the project was to investigate the potential of using advanced manufacturing techniques to construct a 1100LbH2 (~500kg) hydrogen storage tank made with a hydrogen resistant inner liner and pre-tensioned Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) reinforcement. (fig.1) These techniques and materials could lead to improved storage capabilities and reduced cost in comparison to other tank designs.