Single and multiple tank configurations for metal hydride-based hydrogen storage for PEM fuel cell powered underwater vehicles
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, cilt.246, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 246
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2026.155825
- Dergi Adı: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Artic & Antarctic Regions, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, Environment Index, INSPEC, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Hydrogen energy, Hydrogen storage, Metal hydride, PEM fuel cell, Tank design, Underwater vehicles
- Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
The configuration of metal hydride-based hydrogen storage systems plays a critical role in determining thermal performance, refueling characteristics, and overall system feasibility. In this study, single-tank and multiple-tank configurations are systematically compared using a validated numerical model to evaluate their suitability for thermally constrained applications. The single-tank system is designed to store 226.8 kg of hydrogen, whereas the multiple-tank configuration consists of six identical tanks, each storing 37.8 kg. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis is conducted to investigate the effects of the tank aspect ratio (L/D), refueling time, cooling fluid inlet temperature, and coolant velocity on the system mass, geometry, and thermal behavior. The same modeling framework and assumptions are applied to both configurations to ensure a consistent and direct comparison. Results indicate that the multiple-tank configuration exhibits superior thermal controllability, reduced temperature gradients, and lower cooling requirements, particularly during rapid refueling. Although the multiple-tank configuration introduces additional system complexity due to increased piping and control components, its modularity enhances operational flexibility and reliability. These findings highlight the importance of tank configuration as a key design parameter in metal hydride-based hydrogen storage systems.