Lumped parameter simulation of hydrogen storage and purification systems using metal hydrides

In this work, lumped parameter models have been developed for hydrogen storage and purification systems based on Matlab/Simulink. Hydrogen storage systems using metal hydride has been validated by comparing simulation results with data in other literature. In order to improve the efficiency of hydrogen storage system, the effects of ambient temperature, supply pressure, outlet pressure and overall heat transfer coefficient on the hydrogen storage capacity were studied. The validated lumped parameter model was developed to simulate the performance of hydrogen purification system in assumed industrial process. In order to improve hydrogen recovery rate of purification system, the effects of solid material mass, overall heat transfer coefficient, cooling water temperature and supply pressure were taken into consideration. In general, the hydrogen recovery rate of purification system rises with the increase of solid material mass and overall heat transfer coefficient. And it can be considered as an effective way to increase hydrogen recovery rate by reducing the cooling water temperature and enhancing the supply pressure.