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Abstract: In this paper a two-dimensional model of an annular cylindrical reactor filled with metal hydride suitable for hydrogen storage is presented. Comparison of the computed bed temperatures with published experimental data shows a reasonably good agreement except for the initial period. Effects of hydrogen pressure and external fluid temperatures on heat transfer and entropy generation are obtained. Results show that the time required for hydrogen charging and discharging is higher when the thermal capacity of the reactor wall is considered. The time required for absorption and desorption can be reduced significantly by varying the hydrogen gas pressure and external fluid temperatures. However, along with reduction in time the entropy generated during hydrogen storage and discharge increases significantly. Results also show that for the given input conditions, heat transfer between the external fluid and hydride bed is the main source of entropy generation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The metal hydride heat transformer shows great potential for the low-grade heat recovery. However, the heat output is variable, and these dynamics have to be taken into account in realistic applications. In this paper, a new index called true temperature boost is introduced together with conventional indices to assess the performance of the heat transformer system. Detailed analyses are carried out using a mathematical model that authors developed, investigating effects of key design and operating factors on the system’s performance. The amount of hydrogen transferred between coupled reactors is found to be crucial to obtain a high coefficient of performance, while specific heating power is very sensitive to the cycle time. On the true temperature boost, the driving force of reaction and the heat transfer conditions exert the most significant effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]