Fullerene Hydrids for High-Density Storage of Hydrogen

A new form of hydrides: fullerene hydride CnHx is proposed as an innovative approach for high density and safe storage of hydrogen for unmanned undersea vehicles, other submersibles, and for electric land vehicles. Preliminary results indicate that fullerene hydrides, have a significantly improved weight and possibly volumetric density for hydrogen storage over the best metal hydrides. Preliminary results also indicate that the absorption of hydrogen in fullerenes is associated with low heat generation, and fullerenes reversibly absorb and desorb hydrogen at less than 4 atmosphere pressure. This work will be extended to establish the physical and thermal properties of fullerene hydrides formation. Preliminary engineering system design will be preformed to establish the suitability of the proposed concept to supply hydrogen for advanced fuel cells to power military and commercial vehicles. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Applications - Lightweight, high volumetric density, thermally efficient hydrid compounds such as fullerene hydrids are anticipated to have a wide commercial application beyond military application, such as hydrogen external combustion engine, hydrogen purification, and energy storage.