System simulation modeling and heat transfer in sodium alanate based hydrogen storage systems

In this paper, we examine the feasibility of an on-board hydrogen storage system using sodium alanate as the hydrogen storage material. A two-dimensional model is used for evaluating refueling dynamics as well as heat transfer coefficients for the system level model. A parametric study is conducted to understand the influence of different operating parameters on the refueling time. System level performance of this storage system during driving conditions is evaluated using a simulation model developed in Matlab/Simulink platform.

Research highlights
► 2-D COMSOL model developed for a sodium alanate based hydrogen storage system.
► Refueling simulations and a sensitivity study performed to determine optimal parameter ranges for maximizing hydrogen absorption rates.
► A system simulation model that includes the bed, heating fluid, a catalytic heater, and a buffer volume developed for drive cycle simulations.