Maximum Hydrogen Storage Densities in Scalable, Low-Cost Vessels through Compression and Adsorption

ABSTRACT: This proposal outlines a scalable, low-cost procedure for the fabrication of hierarchical hybrid nanomaterials that will produce ultra-high pressure tolerance and surface area vessels. These vessels enable the physical storage of hydrogen through compression and adsorption at densities predicted to exceed the DOE 2015 requirements by 65% and 98% for volumetric and gravimetric standards, respectively. The hybrid nanomaterial is composed of a moderate strength structure with tunable orientation, surface area and volume. It is additionally included with a high strength material to enhance vessel pressure tolerance and hydrogen physisorption without loss of volumetric storage. Furthermore, the novel storage medium comprises a safe technology that would gain immediate market penetration in the area of hydrogen storage, transportation and delivery. BENEFIT: The development of this nanomaterial hybrid vessel for hydrogen storage would have immediate application in hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen powered applications. The vessel could safely store hydrogen for transport and delivery but would also facilitate a controllable yet high flow rate of hydrogen release.