700 bar hydrogen storage for fuel cell vehicles
27 Jun 2001
Quantum Technologies WorldWide claims to be the first to demonstrate an all-composite hydrogen storage tank that stores hydrogen at 10,000 psi (700 Bar). At 10,000 psi, 80% more hydrogen fuel can be stored in a given space than at 5,000 psi - dramatically increasing the range of fuel cell mobile applications.
Dr. Neel Sirosh, Quantum’s Director of Advanced Fuel Storage said, ’The extended range requires volumetric efficiency in the storage of compressed hydrogen at a high pressure without compromising the light-weight nature of the tank. This is a principal advantage of our TriShield tank and the significance of Quantum’s 10,000 psi proof of concept demonstration.’
The 10,000 psi hydrogen storage capability of Quantum’s all-composite TriShield tank was confirmed through a hydrostatic burst test that achieved 23,500 psi burst pressure - a 2.35 factor of safety required by the European Integrated Hydrogen Project (EIHP)specifications.
To supplement the safety features designed into the new 10,000 psi storage tank, Quantum’s patented 10,000 psi in-tank regulator provides additional safety bycontaining the high pressure in the tank and allowing a maximum delivery pressure of only 150 psi (10 Bar).
Quantum is optimising the material composition of the tanks using a proprietary metal alloy end boss that is hydrogen corrosion resistant and a proprietary polymer tank liner that is not affected by the potential of hydrogen embrittlement and stress corrosion cracking.
On May 31, GM announced that is was acquiring a substantial minority ownership position in Quantum to collaborate on improving the range of GM’s fuel cell vehicles.
