Numerical studies of a new device for a cryo-adsorption hydrogen storage system.

Cryo-adsorption is an attractive method for hydrogen storage. However, the non-uniformity of temperature during the charging process affects its performance. To improve the uniformity of the temperature field inside the hydrogen storage tank, and thus improve the hydrogen storage performance and hydrogen storage efficiency of the tank, this paper proposed a thermal management method that combines the central and spiral cooling tubes with vacuum adiabatic heat management. Accordingly, a numerical model was built to investigate the hydrogen adsorption performance of the installation. The results reveal that satisfactory temperature-uniformity was shown in charging and dormant stages. Suitable operating conditions also can improve hydrogen storage performance by reducing the impact of thermal effects. Moreover, the hydrogen storage capacity of activated-carbon cryo-adsorption is roughly 2.5 times that of cryo-compressed storage and 10 times that of ambient-compressed storage. [Display omitted] • A new cooling structure enhancing temperature uniformity was proposed. • The charge cycle of cryogenic activated carbon hydrogen storage is simulated. • Hydrogen storage capacity is significantly improved with new cooling structure. • Proper operating condition leads to satisfactory hydrogen storage amount. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]