A solid-state hydrogen storage tank and a method for preparing and charging and discharging hydrogen thereof

Abstract

This invention relates to a solid-state hydrogen storage tank and its preparation and filling / discharging methods, belonging to the field of hydrogen storage and transportation technology. It solves the technical problem that the low thermal conductivity of granular and powdered hydrogen storage alloys leads to reduced hydrogen absorption and discharging rates, while existing solid-state hydrogen storage tanks with internal heat exchange structures suffer from complex manufacturing processes and high costs. A solid-state hydrogen storage tank includes a valve, a tank body, a metal mesh array, and granular hydrogen storage alloy dispersedly filled within the metal mesh array. The tank body is a cylindrical, straight-sided bottle shape. The valve fits into the bottle opening of the tank body. The metal mesh array is densely filled inside the tank body and tightly adheres to the inner wall of the tank body. The solid-state hydrogen storage tank of this invention constructs a metal mesh array through the combination of single metal mesh tubes, forming a dense and continuous metal mesh heat transfer network with high thermal conductivity. This reduces the high / low temperature levels of the hydrogen storage alloy bed, especially in the core area, and significantly shortens the hydrogen filling time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of hydrogen storage and transportation technology, and specifically relates to a solid hydrogen storage tank and its preparation and filling / discharging methods. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, hydrogen storage and transportation technologies mainly include three types: high-pressure gaseous hydrogen storage, cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage, and low-pressure solid-state hydrogen storage. Safe and high-density storage are the primary issues for the application of hydrogen storage and transportation technologies. Low-pressure solid-state hydrogen storage, due to its inherent low-pressure safety characteristics and high volumetric hydrogen storage density, has become an important technical solution to the "storage and transportation bottleneck" problem in the hydrogen energy industry chain.

[0003] In solid-state hydrogen storage technology, hydrogen is stored and released through a reaction with a hydrogen storage alloy medium, accompanied by significant exothermic and endothermic effects. Hydrogen storage alloys are typically filled into solid-state hydrogen storage containers in granular or powder form. Compared to bulk alloys, granular and powder alloys have lower thermal conductivity. During hydrogen absorption, the rapid release of heat prevents timely conduction to the outside environment, leading to an increase in the alloy bed temperature and a decrease in the hydrogen absorption rate. During hydrogen release, external heat cannot be quickly conducted to the container interior, causing a decrease in the alloy bed temperature and a decrease in the hydrogen release rate. In addition to the reaction heat effect, hydrogen storage alloys exhibit significant volume changes during hydrogen absorption and release due to the filling or escaping of hydrogen atoms in the intercellular spaces of the alloy. After multiple hydrogen absorption and release cycles, the hydrogen storage alloy gradually breaks down and pulverizes due to volume changes, further reducing the thermal conductivity of the alloy bed. Furthermore, alloy powder gradually settles and accumulates at the bottom of the container, making the alloy bed denser and hindering hydrogen diffusion, resulting in a further decrease in the hydrogen filling and releasing rate of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank.

[0004] To improve hydrogen absorption and desorption rates, existing technologies focus on enhancing the heat exchange capacity of hydrogen storage tanks. For example, patent application CN116241790A discloses a solid hydrogen storage cylinder with an internal heat exchange structure. This involves dividing the cylinder into multiple sections by installing multiple high-thermal-conductivity metal heat sinks inside, with each heat sink in full contact with the inner wall of the cylinder and the hydrogen storage alloy material. Patent application CN119508722A discloses a solid hydrogen storage tank and its manufacturing method, which incorporates a core heat exchanger within the tank. This core heat exchanger consists of several H-shaped extended surface finned tubes, each including a heat exchange tube and several heat dissipation fins on the heat exchange tube. The gaps between the fins serve as space for placing the hydrogen storage material. It is evident that the aforementioned hydrogen storage tanks require the internal installation of heat sinks or heat exchangers as an integral part of the tank design, installation, or molding process. This inevitably necessitates various tank forming and assembly processes such as hot extrusion and welding, resulting in complex manufacturing processes and high costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned technical status, the present invention provides a solid hydrogen storage tank and its preparation and hydrogen filling and discharging methods, in order to solve the technical problems of low thermal conductivity of hydrogen storage alloys made of particles and powders, which leads to a decrease in hydrogen absorption and discharging rates, and the complex and costly preparation process of existing solid hydrogen storage tanks with internal heat exchange structures.

[0006] The objective of this invention is mainly achieved through the following technical solutions: The present invention provides a solid hydrogen storage tank, which includes a valve, a tank body, a metal mesh array, and a granular hydrogen storage alloy dispersedly filled in the metal mesh array; the tank body is a cylindrical straight-tube bottle shape, the valve is matched with the bottle mouth of the tank body, and the metal mesh array is densely filled inside the tank body and tightly attached to the inner wall of the tank body.

[0007] Furthermore, the metal mesh array comprises multiple metal mesh tubes, each of which is filled with a hydrogen storage alloy; and / or, the total weight of the metal mesh array does not exceed 15% of the tank weight.

[0008] Furthermore, the metal mesh tube is a hollow tube bundle formed by rolling a single layer of metal mesh, and the cross-section of the metal mesh tube is circular or polygonal; and / or, the diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40% to 90% of the inner diameter of the bottle mouth, and the length of the metal mesh tube is 70% to 90% of the height of the tank.

[0009] Furthermore, the metal mesh is made of one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or their alloys; and / or, the thickness of the metal mesh is 0.1 mm. 1mm; and / or, the inscribed circle diameter of the metal mesh is 0.5mm. 2.5mm, metal mesh wire diameter 0.1mm. 1mm.

[0010] Furthermore, the solid hydrogen storage tank also includes a metal mesh gas guide pipe, which is arranged in the metal mesh cylinder array and located in the central area of ​​the tank.

[0011] Furthermore, the metal mesh gas guide tube is made by tightly rolling multiple layers of metal mesh into a solid tube bundle, then sealing it in a woven bag made of copper wire, glass fiber, or carbon fiber; and / or, the diameter of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 50% to 150% of the diameter of a single metal mesh tube, and does not exceed the inner diameter of the bottle mouth; the length of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 80% to 90% of the height of the can, and is not less than the length of a single metal mesh tube; and / or, the metal mesh material used in the construction of the metal mesh gas guide tube is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or alloys; and / or, the mesh size of the metal mesh used in the construction of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 20% to 100% of the mesh size of the metal mesh used in the construction of a single metal mesh tube, and the wire diameter of the metal mesh used in the construction of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 0.1 mm. The thickness of the metal mesh used in the metal mesh air guide tube construction is 0.5mm, which is 50% to 100% of the thickness of the metal mesh used in the single-tube construction of the metal mesh cylinder; and / or, the total weight of the metal mesh air guide tube does not exceed 5% of the weight of the tank.

[0012] Secondly, the present invention provides a method for preparing the above-mentioned solid hydrogen storage tank excluding the metal mesh gas guide tube, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Select an aluminum alloy or stainless steel tank and use high-pressure air to purge impurities from inside the tank. Step 2: Select a metal mesh. The metal mesh material is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or alloys. The thickness of the metal mesh is 0.1~1mm, and the diameter of the inscribed circle of the metal mesh opening is 0.5~2.5mm. Cut the metal mesh into several strips with a length of 70%~90% of the height of the can. Fold and roll them along the long side to form several hollow metal mesh tubes. The cross-section of the tube is circular or polygonal. The diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40%~90% of the diameter of the bottle mouth. Then, use thin metal wire to wrap and tie it along the folded long side. Step 3: Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one from the lower circumference of the bottle mouth, ensuring they are in close contact with each other, until the can is filled with metal mesh tubes and the array of metal mesh tubes inside the can does not shift when the can is shaken. Step 4: Select the hydrogen storage alloy, crush the alloy block into fine particles using a jaw crusher, further sieve it using a 2.5mm standard sieve, collect the sieved material and mix it evenly, then load it into the tank, so that the hydrogen storage alloy is evenly distributed inside and between the metal mesh tubes, with the hydrogen storage alloy filling volume accounting for 60%~85% of the tank's internal volume; Step 5: Use high-pressure air to blow away impurities from the bottle neck threads, screw the valve containing the filter onto the bottle neck, and fully embed the sealing ring of the upper step of the valve threads into the sealing groove of the can body.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for preparing the above-mentioned metal mesh air duct, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Select an aluminum alloy or stainless steel tank and use high-pressure air to purge impurities from inside the tank. Step 2: Select a metal mesh. The metal mesh material is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or alloys. The thickness of the metal mesh is 0.1~1mm, and the diameter of the inscribed circle of the metal mesh opening is 0.5~2.5mm. Cut the metal mesh into several strips with a length of 70%~90% of the height of the can. Fold and roll them along the long side to form several hollow metal mesh tubes. The cross-section of the tube is circular or polygonal. The diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40%~90% of the diameter of the bottle mouth. Then, use thin metal wire to wrap and tie it along the folded long side. Step 2': Select a metal mesh. The metal mesh material is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or their alloys. The thickness of the metal mesh is 50% to 100% of the thickness of the metal mesh used in the single-tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder, and the wire diameter is 0.1 mm. 0.5mm, the mesh size is 20%~100% of the mesh size of the metal mesh used in the single tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder; cut the metal mesh into sheets, fold them in half along the long side and roll them into a solid dense mesh cylinder, then put them into a copper wire, glass fiber or carbon fiber woven bag, and tie and seal it with a thin metal wire. Its length is 80%~90% of the height of the tank, and not less than the length of the single tube of the metal mesh cylinder, and its diameter is 50%~150% of the single tube of the metal mesh cylinder, and not more than the inner diameter of the mouth of the solid hydrogen storage tank. The metal mesh gas guide tube is now complete. Step 3': Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the lower circumference from the bottle mouth, ensuring they are in close contact with each other. After the lower half of the can is filled, insert the metal mesh air guide tube to ensure it is located on the central axis of the can. Then continue to insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the upper circumference until the can is filled with metal mesh tubes one by one, and the metal mesh array inside the can does not shift when the can is shaken. Step 4: Select the hydrogen storage alloy, crush the alloy block into fine particles using a jaw crusher, further sieve it using a 2.5mm standard sieve, collect the sieved material and mix it evenly, then load it into the tank, so that the hydrogen storage alloy is evenly distributed inside and between the metal mesh tubes, with the hydrogen storage alloy filling volume accounting for 60%~85% of the tank's internal volume; Step 5: Use high-pressure air to blow away impurities from the bottle neck threads, screw the valve containing the filter onto the bottle neck, and fully embed the sealing ring of the upper step of the valve threads into the sealing groove of the can body.

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for filling the solid hydrogen storage tank described above or prepared by the above method with hydrogen, comprising the following steps: Step S1: Connect the loaded solid hydrogen storage tank to the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 30~120 minutes to remove the air from the tank. Step S2: Check the airtightness of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Pressurize the tank by introducing hydrogen gas, maintaining the pressure at 0.5~1.0 MPa for 5~10 minutes, and use a hydrogen leak alarm to detect the area around the tank. If the pressure exceeds the working pressure by 0.5~1 MPa, maintain the pressure for 20~40 minutes. After the airtightness check is passed, release the hydrogen gas from the tank. Step S3: Wrap the solid hydrogen storage tank with a heating jacket, set the heating temperature to 100~200℃, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 0.5~3 hours, and remove the residual hydrogen and air adsorbed on the alloy surface inside the tank. Step S4: After the tank returns to room temperature, place it in a constant temperature circulating water bath at 5~25℃, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 2~5MPa and fill the tank with hydrogen until the hydrogen flow rate drops to zero; then place it in a constant temperature circulating water bath at 30~70℃, open the valve to release hydrogen into the air until the hydrogen flow rate drops to less than 1SLM, and continue to start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 30~120 minutes, thus completing the activation of the solid hydrogen storage tank; Step S5: Place the tank in a constant temperature circulating water bath at 5~25℃, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 2~5MPa, set the hydrogen filling flow meter to full scale, and fill the tank with hydrogen. During the hydrogen filling process, the changes in the surface temperature of the tank, the instantaneous flow rate of hydrogen, the cumulative flow rate, and the changes in the pressure inside the tank are monitored and recorded by the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system. When the instantaneous flow rate of hydrogen continuously decreases to a stable level, close the tank valve to stop the hydrogen filling.

[0015] Finally, the present invention provides a method for releasing hydrogen from the above-described solid hydrogen storage tank or the solid hydrogen storage tank prepared by the above method. The method includes: placing the hydrogen-filled solid hydrogen storage tank in a heat exchange environment, setting the flow rate of the hydrogen release flow meter to below 100 SLM, and opening the tank valve to release hydrogen; during the hydrogen release process, the instantaneous flow rate, cumulative flow rate, tank pressure, and tank surface temperature changes are monitored and recorded by a solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system; when the instantaneous flow rate of hydrogen continuously decreases to ≤1 SLM, the tank valve is closed to stop hydrogen release.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention can achieve at least one of the following technical effects: (1) The solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention is constructed by combining single metal mesh tubes to form a metal mesh array, which forms a tight and continuous metal mesh heat transfer network with high thermal conductivity. The close contact between the metal mesh array and the inner wall of the tank allows for rapid heat conduction during the hydrogen charging and discharging process, reducing the high / low temperature levels of the hydrogen storage alloy bed, especially the core area. Compared with solid hydrogen storage tanks without a metal mesh array, the charging time is significantly shortened. Specifically, under the same charging conditions, the total charging time is shortened by 50%, and the time for the surface temperature to reach equilibrium during the charging process is shortened by more than 50%.

[0017] (2) In the solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention, the microporous network widely distributed in the metal mesh array is a good channel for hydrogen transport, allowing hydrogen to flow freely in the numerous metal mesh openings, greatly reducing mass transfer resistance, thereby improving the hydrogen charging and discharging kinetics of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Specifically, compared with a solid hydrogen storage tank without a metal mesh array, under the same charging and discharging conditions, the average hydrogen charging rate is increased by 107%, the average hydrogen discharging rate is increased by more than 2.8%, the hydrogen charging capacity is increased by 3.5%, and the hydrogen discharging capacity is increased by more than 1.8%.

[0018] (3) The solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention, wherein the high heat exchange advantage of the metal mesh array structure enables it to exhibit high hydrogen release efficiency under limited rate hydrogen release conditions. Compared with the solid hydrogen storage tank without metal mesh array, under the conditions of fan convection heat exchange and hydrogen release flow rate of 2.5SLM, the constant rate hydrogen release / hydrogen release is increased by 16.2%, which is particularly suitable for the long-term hydrogen supply needs of small power fuel cells.

[0019] (4) The solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention can further improve its hydrogen charging and decharging kinetics by introducing a composite heat and mass transfer structure of a metal mesh array and a metal mesh gas guide tube. Among them, compared with the solid hydrogen storage tank with only a metal mesh array structure, under the same hydrogen charging and decharging conditions, the average hydrogen charging rate is increased by 1.6%, the hydrogen charging amount is increased by 1.6%, the average hydrogen decharging rate is increased by 2.3%, the constant rate hydrogen decharging amount / hydrogen decharging amount is increased by 3.5%, and the hydrogen decharging amount is increased by 0.7%.

[0020] (5) The independent cavity formed by the metal mesh array of the present invention divides the hydrogen storage alloy bed into many units, increasing the contact area between the hydrogen storage alloy and hydrogen. The stress generated by the volume change caused by the hydrogen absorption and desorption of the alloy can be released in the longitudinal direction with the help of the metal mesh. The transverse stress concentration or even deformation and cracking caused by the continuous pulverization and extrusion of the bed in the lower part of the tank can be significantly alleviated.

[0021] (6) The microporous metal mesh used in this invention is low in cost, readily available on the market and lightweight. The total weight of the metal mesh cylinder array does not exceed 15% of the tank weight and the total weight of the metal mesh gas guide tube does not exceed 5% of the tank weight. It will not reduce the mass hydrogen storage density of the solid hydrogen storage tank, but will significantly improve its hydrogen filling and discharging performance, and has extremely high cost performance.

[0022] (7) The method proposed in this invention is simple and easy to implement, has wide applicability, is not affected by tank processing technology such as welding, and has good compatibility with various existing hydrogen storage alloys, hydrogen and tanks, with no adverse effects. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same parts.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the external and internal structures of an exemplary solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention. Figure 2 for Figure 1 A top-view diagram of the internal structure of a solid hydrogen storage tank; Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of an exemplary metal mesh cylinder single tube structure of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the internal structure of a solid hydrogen storage tank with a metal mesh gas guide tube, which is an example of the present invention. Figure 5 for Figure 4 A top-view diagram of the internal structure of a solid hydrogen storage tank; Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of an exemplary metal mesh air duct structure of the present invention; Figure 7 Performance test diagrams for the hydrogen charging process of Example 1 and Comparative Example 1; Figure 8 These are performance test graphs of the hydrogen release process in Example 1 and Comparative Example 1; Figure 9 These are performance test graphs of the hydrogen release process in Example 2 and Comparative Example 2; Figure 10 These are performance test graphs of the hydrogen release process in Example 3 and Comparative Example 3; Figure 11 The graphs show the performance test results of the hydrogen charging process in Example 4 and Comparative Example 1. Figure 12 These are performance test graphs of the hydrogen release process in Example 4 and Comparative Example 1; In the diagram, 1-valve; 2-tank; 3-metal mesh array; 30-single metal mesh tube; 4-metal mesh gas guide tube. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The following detailed description of a solid hydrogen storage tank and its preparation and hydrogen filling / discharging methods, with reference to specific embodiments, is provided. These embodiments are for comparative and illustrative purposes only, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0026] First, this invention proposes a solid hydrogen storage tank. Figure 1 The images are three-dimensional schematic diagrams of the external and internal structures of an exemplary solid hydrogen storage tank according to the present invention, wherein the left image is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the external structure of the solid hydrogen storage tank and the right image is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the internal structure of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Figure 2 for Figure 1 A top-view schematic diagram of the internal structure of a solid hydrogen storage tank. The solid hydrogen storage tank consists of a valve 1, a tank body 2, a metal mesh array 3, and granular hydrogen storage alloy dispersed and filled within the metal mesh array 3; the gas channel inside the valve 1 is equipped with a filter with a filtration accuracy of 0.5μm.

[0027] The canister 2 is a straight-sided, tapered-mouth bottle shape, made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel. The canister height is 23-36cm (e.g., 26cm, 33cm); the outer diameter is 40-108mm (e.g., 51mm, 60mm, 76mm, 81mm, 90mm); and the wall thickness is 3-5mm (e.g., 4mm). The canister height and outer diameter are approximately positively correlated. The inner diameter of the bottle mouth is 12-24mm (e.g., 18mm); and the volume is 0.3-2.5L (e.g., 0.4L, 0.5L, 0.6L, 0.8L, 1L, 1.5L, 2L). A valve engages with the bottle mouth, and a dense array of metal mesh cylinders fills the interior of the canister, adhering tightly to the inner wall.

[0028] The metal mesh array 3 is formed by multiple metal mesh tubes 30 inserted from the bottle opening of the can 2, sticking together and tightly fitting against the inner wall of the can 2, as shown in Figure 7. One hundred metal mesh tubes are used, and hydrogen storage alloy is filled in the cavity formed by the interweaving of the metal mesh tubes and the adjacent metal mesh tubes.

[0029] The metal mesh used in the single-tube structure is made of one or more high thermal conductivity metals or alloys such as aluminum, copper, nickel, and iron. The mesh openings are rectangular, rhomboid, circular, or other polygonal shapes, with an inscribed circle diameter of 0.5 mm. 2.5mm, wire diameter 0.1mm 1mm.

[0030] The metal mesh used in the single-tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder has a thickness of 0.1 mm. 1mm, flexible and bendable.

[0031] The metal mesh tube 30 is a hollow tube bundle formed by rolling a single layer of metal mesh. The cross-section of the tube is one or more of a circle or a polygon. The diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40% of the inner diameter of the bottle mouth. 90%, the length of a single metal mesh cylinder is 70% to 90% of the tank height. Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of an exemplary metal mesh cylinder single tube structure of the present invention.

[0032] The total weight of the metal mesh array 3 does not exceed 15% of the tank weight. Under this premise, metal mesh tubes 30 of the same diameter are distributed densely and evenly in the solid hydrogen storage tank as much as possible, or metal mesh tubes 30 of different diameters are arranged in an orderly and dense manner with the outer diameter being thicker and the inner diameter being thinner. The outer diameter being thicker and the inner diameter being thinner means that the diameter of the metal mesh tubes near the inner wall of the solid hydrogen storage tank is larger, and the diameter of the metal mesh tubes far from the inner wall of the solid hydrogen storage tank is smaller.

[0033] The hydrogen storage alloy includes rare earth-based LaCaNi and titanium-based TiMn alloys. After the hydrogen storage alloy block is crushed, it is screened through a 2.5mm standard sieve. The undersize material is mixed and then loaded into a solid hydrogen storage tank, with the filling volume accounting for 60% to 85% of the tank's internal volume.

[0034] Furthermore, the solid hydrogen storage tank also includes a metal mesh gas guide pipe 4. That is, the solid hydrogen storage tank is composed of a valve 1, a tank body 2, a metal mesh array 3, a metal mesh gas guide pipe 4, and particulate hydrogen storage alloy dispersed and filled in the metal mesh array 3. Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the internal structure of a solid hydrogen storage tank with a metal mesh gas guide tube, as exemplified by the present invention. Figure 5 for Figure 4 A top-view diagram of the internal structure of a solid hydrogen storage tank.

[0035] The metal mesh air duct 4 is surrounded by the metal mesh cylinder array 3 and is located in the core of the tank body 2.

[0036] The metal mesh air duct 4 is made by tightly rolling multiple layers of metal mesh into a solid tube bundle and sealing it inside a woven bag made of copper wire, glass fiber, or carbon fiber. Its diameter is 50% of that of a single metal mesh tube 30. 150%, and not exceeding the inner diameter of the solid hydrogen storage tank opening; the length is 80%~90% of the height of the solid hydrogen storage tank body, and not less than the length of a single tube of the metal mesh cylinder.

[0037] The metal mesh used in the metal mesh air guide tube 4 is made of one or more of high thermal conductivity metals or alloys such as aluminum, copper, nickel, and iron. The mesh openings are rectangular, rhomboid, circular, or other polygonal shapes. To minimize the chance of alloy powder penetrating and clogging the metal mesh air guide tube, and to effectively control its weight, the mesh opening size is 20% of the mesh opening size used in the single-tube metal mesh tube construction. 100%, wire diameter 0.1 The metal mesh thickness is 0.5mm, and is 50% of the thickness of the metal mesh used in the single-tube metal mesh cylinder structure. 100% flexible and bendable.

[0038] The total weight of the metal mesh gas guide tube 4 does not exceed 5% of the weight of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Under this premise, the metal mesh gas guide tube 4 is preferably made of lightweight, fine wire diameter and thin metal mesh material. The diameter of the metal mesh gas guide tube is positively correlated with the diameter of the solid hydrogen storage tank, that is, it decreases synchronously with the decrease of the tank diameter, or increases synchronously with the increase of the tank diameter.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of an exemplary metal mesh air duct structure of the present invention.

[0040] It should be noted that for smaller diameter tanks, inserting a metal mesh array can achieve efficient heat and mass transfer. As the tank diameter increases, the lateral mass transfer resistance of hydrogen in the alloy bed increases, requiring the insertion of a gas guide tube to improve the hydrogen diffusion rate. When the inner diameter of the tank exceeds 2.5 times the inner diameter of the bottle opening, such as a tank with an inner diameter of 18 mm and an inner diameter of 76 mm, inserting a metal mesh gas guide tube can significantly improve the hydrogen charging and discharging rates.

[0041] On the other hand, the present invention provides a method for preparing the above-mentioned solid hydrogen storage tank, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Select an aluminum alloy or stainless steel tank with a height of 23-36cm, an outer diameter of 40-108mm, a wall thickness of 3-5mm, an inner diameter of 12-24mm, and a volume of 0.3-2.5L. Use high-pressure air to blow away dust and other impurities inside the tank to prevent contamination of the hydrogen storage alloy.

[0042] Step 2: Select a flexible, bendable metal mesh. The metal mesh material should be one or more of high thermal conductivity metals or alloys such as aluminum, copper, nickel, and iron. The metal mesh thickness should be 0.1~1mm, and the mesh opening shape should be one or more of rectangles, rhombuses, circles, or other polygons. The inscribed circle diameter of the mesh opening should be 0.5~2.5mm, and the wire diameter should be 0.1~1mm. Cut the metal mesh into several strips with a length equal to 70%~90% of the can's height. Fold and roll these strips along their long sides to form several hollow metal mesh tubes. The cross-section of each tube should be one or more of circles or polygons. The diameter of the metal mesh tube or its circumscribed circle should be 40%~90% of the bottle opening diameter. Then, use thin metal wire to wrap and bind the tubes along the folded long sides to prevent deformation and cracking.

[0043] Step 3: Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one from the lower circumference of the bottle mouth, ensuring that they are in close contact with each other, until the can is full of metal mesh tubes. Ensure that the metal mesh array inside the can does not shift when the can is shaken, and that the total weight of the metal mesh array does not exceed 15% of the weight of the can.

[0044] Step 4: Select the hydrogen storage alloy, crush the alloy block into fine particles using a jaw crusher, further screen it with a 2.5mm standard sieve, take the sieved material and mix it evenly, and slowly fill it into the tank, so that the hydrogen storage alloy is dispersed and filled in the single tube of the metal mesh cylinder and between the cavities formed by the interweaving of the single tubes of the metal mesh cylinder, with the filling volume accounting for 60% to 85% of the tank's internal volume.

[0045] Step 5: Use high-pressure air to blow away the impurities in the bottle neck threads, and screw the valve containing the filter onto the bottle neck, ensuring that the sealing ring of the upper step of the valve thread is fully embedded in the sealing groove of the can body.

[0046] Furthermore, in a method for preparing a solid hydrogen storage tank with a metal mesh gas guide tube, after step 2 and before step 4 of the above method, the following step is used instead of step 3 of the above method: Step 2': Select a flexible, bendable metal mesh. The metal mesh material should be one or more of high thermal conductivity metals or their alloys, such as aluminum, copper, nickel, and iron. The thickness of the metal mesh should be 50% to 100% of the thickness of the metal mesh used in the single-tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder. The mesh shape should be one or more of rectangular, rhomboid, circular, or other polygonal shapes. The mesh size should be 20% to 100% of the mesh size used in the single-tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder. The wire diameter should be 0.1 to 0.5 mm. Cut the metal mesh into sheets and fold them in half along the long side to form a solid, dense mesh cylinder. Then, pack it into a copper wire, glass fiber, or carbon fiber woven bag and seal it with fine metal wire. The length of the cylinder should be 80% to 90% of the tank height and not less than the length of the single-tube metal mesh cylinder. The diameter should be 50% to 150% of the single-tube metal mesh cylinder and not exceed the inner diameter of the solid hydrogen storage tank opening. This completes the metal mesh gas guide tube. The total weight of the metal mesh gas guide tube should not exceed 5% of the tank weight.

[0047] Step 3': Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the lower circumference from the bottle mouth, ensuring that they are in close contact with each other. After the lower half of the can is filled, insert the metal mesh air guide tube and ensure that it is located on the central axis inside the can. Then continue to insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the upper circumference until the can is filled with metal mesh tubes one by one. Ensure that the metal mesh array inside the can does not shift when the can shakes, and that the total weight of the metal mesh array does not exceed 15% of the weight of the can.

[0048] The solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention is constructed by combining single metal mesh tubes to form a metal mesh array, which forms a tight and continuous metal mesh heat transfer network with high thermal conductivity. Its close contact with the inner wall of the tank allows the heat to be quickly conducted during the hydrogen filling and discharging process of the solid hydrogen storage tank, reducing the high / low temperature level of the hydrogen storage alloy bed, especially the core area.

[0049] The independent cavity formed by the metal mesh array of the present invention divides the hydrogen storage alloy bed into numerous units, increasing the contact area between the hydrogen storage alloy and hydrogen. The stress generated by the volume change caused by the hydrogen absorption and desorption of the alloy can be released to a certain extent in the longitudinal direction with the help of the metal mesh. The lateral stress concentration or even deformation and cracking caused by the continuous pulverization and extrusion of the bed in the lower part of the tank can be significantly alleviated.

[0050] The microporous metal mesh used in the metal mesh cylinder single tube and the metal mesh gas guide tube of this invention is low in cost, readily available on the market, and lightweight. The total weight of the metal mesh cylinder array does not exceed 15% of the tank weight, and the total weight of the metal mesh gas guide tube does not exceed 5% of the tank weight. It will not reduce the mass hydrogen storage density of the solid hydrogen storage tank, but will significantly improve its hydrogen filling and discharging performance, and has extremely high cost performance.

[0051] The method proposed in this invention is simple and easy to implement, widely applicable, unaffected by tank processing techniques such as welding, and has good compatibility with various existing hydrogen storage alloys, hydrogen, and tanks without any adverse effects.

[0052] Furthermore, the present invention also provides a method for filling and discharging hydrogen from the above-mentioned solid hydrogen storage tank, wherein the hydrogen filling method includes the following steps: Step S1: Connect the loaded solid hydrogen storage tank to the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 30~120 minutes to remove the air from the tank.

[0053] Step S2: Check the airtightness of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Introduce hydrogen into the tank to increase the pressure, maintaining this pressure at 0.5-1.0 MPa for 5-10 minutes. Use a hydrogen leak alarm to check the area around the tank, especially the connection between the valve and the bottle opening, ensuring the alarm reading remains zero or the leak warning sound is not heard. If the pressure exceeds the working pressure by 0.5-1 MPa, maintain the pressure for 20-40 minutes to ensure there are no leaks. After the airtightness check is passed, release the hydrogen from the tank.

[0054] Step S3: Wrap the solid hydrogen storage tank with a heating jacket, set the heating temperature to 100~200℃, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 0.5~3 hours, and remove the residual hydrogen and the small amount of air adsorbed on the alloy surface inside the tank.

[0055] Step S4: After the tank returns to room temperature, place it in a constant-temperature circulating water bath at 5~25℃, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 2~5MPa and fill the tank with hydrogen until the hydrogen flow rate drops to zero. Then place it in a constant-temperature circulating water bath at 30~70℃, open the valve to release hydrogen into the air until the hydrogen flow rate drops to less than 1SLM, and continue to run the vacuum pump for 30~120 minutes to complete the activation of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank.

[0056] Step S5: Place the tank in a constant-temperature circulating water bath at 5~25℃, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 2~5MPa, set the hydrogen flow meter to full scale, and fill the tank with hydrogen. Attach a thermocouple to the middle of the tank's outer wall to monitor the surface temperature. During the hydrogen filling process, changes in the tank surface temperature, instantaneous hydrogen flow rate, cumulative flow rate, and internal pressure changes are monitored and recorded by the solid-state hydrogen storage device performance testing system. When the instantaneous hydrogen flow rate continuously decreases until it stabilizes, close the tank valve to stop hydrogen filling.

[0057] A method for releasing hydrogen from the above-mentioned solid hydrogen storage tank includes the following steps: Step T1: Place the hydrogen-filled solid hydrogen storage tank in a fan-driven, high-convective-air environment at room temperature, or in a circulating water heat exchange environment at 30-70℃. Set the hydrogen release flow meter to below 100 SLM and open the tank valve to release hydrogen. During the hydrogen release process, the instantaneous flow rate, cumulative flow rate, tank pressure, and surface temperature changes of the tank are monitored and recorded by the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system. When the instantaneous hydrogen flow rate continuously decreases to ≤1 SLM, close the tank valve to stop hydrogen release.

[0058] Step T2: After hydrogen release is completed, calculate the hydrogen release efficiency of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank. This includes the cumulative hydrogen release amount, the time taken to reach the maximum hydrogen release amount, the hydrogen release amount at a constant rate, the duration of hydrogen release at a constant rate, and the ratio of the constant-rate hydrogen release amount to the cumulative hydrogen release amount.

[0059] It should be noted that the solid-state hydrogen storage device performance testing system is an online device for testing the hydrogen charging and decharging performance of solid-state hydrogen storage tanks or various solid-state hydrogen storage reaction beds. Its structure mainly includes a vacuum module, a hydrogen charging pressure and flow control and recording module, a hydrogen decharging pressure and flow control and recording module, a temperature monitoring and control module, a stress and strain monitoring module, an inlet module, and an exhaust module. Specifically, patent CN221007187U and patent application CN117347227A disclose a solid-state hydrogen storage testing device and method. This device includes a temperature monitoring unit, a first pressure and flow control unit, a second pressure and flow control unit, a stress and strain monitoring unit, and an exhaust unit. This device can test the hydrogen absorption and decharging capacity, hydrogen absorption and decharging rate, temperature changes, and other performance characteristics of the solid-state hydrogen storage reaction bed under limited pressure and flow conditions, and can also test the stress and strain data of the solid-state hydrogen storage reaction bed during hydrogen absorption and decharging. SLM represents the volumetric flow rate of gas under standard conditions, with units of standard liters per minute.

[0060] Compared with solid hydrogen storage tanks without a metal mesh array, the solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention significantly shortens the hydrogen filling time and increases the hydrogen filling capacity. Specifically, under the same hydrogen filling conditions, the total hydrogen filling time is shortened by 50%, the time for the tank surface temperature to reach equilibrium during the hydrogen filling process is shortened by more than 50%, the average hydrogen filling rate is increased by more than 107%, and the hydrogen filling capacity is increased by more than 3.5%.

[0061] The solid hydrogen storage tank of the present invention improves the hydrogen release capacity and average hydrogen release rate compared with solid hydrogen storage tanks without a metal mesh array. Specifically, under the same hydrogen release conditions, the average hydrogen release rate is increased by more than 2.8%, and the hydrogen release capacity is increased by more than 1.8%; under the hydrogen release conditions of fan convection heat exchange and a hydrogen release flow rate of 2.5 SLM, the constant-rate hydrogen release capacity / hydrogen release capacity is increased by more than 16.2%.

[0062] Example 1 A solid hydrogen storage tank comprises a valve, a tank body, a metal mesh array, and granular hydrogen storage alloy dispersed within the metal mesh array. The valve's internal gas passage is equipped with a filter with a filtration accuracy of 0.5 μm. The tank body is a straight-cylinder bottle shape, made of aluminum alloy, with an outer diameter of 51 mm, a wall thickness of 3 mm, a height of 33 cm, an internal thread specification of M18×1.5, a volume of 0.4 L, and a weight of 440 g.

[0063] A method for preparing the above-mentioned solid hydrogen storage tank includes the following steps: Step 1: Select an aluminum alloy tank with an outer diameter of 51mm, a wall thickness of 3mm, a height of 33cm, an internal thread specification of M18×1.5, a volume of 0.4L, and a weight of 440g. Use high-pressure air to blow away dust and other impurities inside the tank to prevent contamination of the hydrogen storage alloy.

[0064] Step 2: Select a flexible, bendable microporous aluminum mesh with a rhomboid mesh shape, an inscribed circle diameter of 1mm, a wire diameter of 0.5mm, and a mesh thickness of 1mm. Cut it into strips 28cm long and 3.14cm wide, and fold them in half along the long side to form a mesh tube with a diameter of approximately 10mm. Use 0.2mm diameter copper wire to wrap and bind along the folded long side to prevent the metal mesh tube from deforming and cracking. A total of 13 bent metal mesh tubes were formed, weighing 52g.

[0065] Step 3: Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one from the lower circumference of the bottle mouth, ensuring that they are in close contact with each other, until the can is full of metal mesh tubes, and ensure that the metal mesh array inside the can does not shift when the can is shaken.

[0066] Step 4: Select rare earth-based LaCaNi hydrogen storage alloy, crush the alloy block into fine particles using a jaw crusher, further sieve it with a 2.5mm standard sieve, take the sieved material and mix it evenly, weigh 1.7kg and slowly fill it into the tank to a filling height of about 28cm.

[0067] Step 5: Use high-pressure air to blow away the impurities in the bottle neck threads, and screw the valve containing the filter onto the bottle neck, ensuring that the sealing ring of the upper step of the valve thread is fully embedded in the sealing groove of the can body.

[0068] A method for filling and discharging hydrogen from the above-mentioned solid hydrogen storage tank, the hydrogen filling method comprising the following steps: Step S1: Connect the loaded solid hydrogen storage tank to the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 30 minutes, and remove the air from the tank.

[0069] Step S2: Check the airtightness of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Introduce hydrogen into the tank to increase the pressure, maintaining this pressure at 0.5 MPa for 5 minutes. Use a portable hydrogen leak detector to check the area around the tank, especially the connection between the valve and the bottle opening, ensuring the detector reading remains zero or the leak warning sound is not activated. After the pressure exceeds the working pressure by 1 MPa, maintain the pressure for 30 minutes to ensure there are no leaks. Once the airtightness check is passed, release the hydrogen from the tank.

[0070] Step S3: Wrap the solid hydrogen storage tank with a heating jacket, set the heating temperature to 150°C, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 2 hours, and remove the residual hydrogen and the small amount of air adsorbed on the alloy surface inside the tank.

[0071] Step S4: After the tank returns to room temperature, place it in a 10°C constant-temperature circulating water bath, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 3MPa, and fill the tank with hydrogen until the hydrogen flow rate drops to zero. Then, place it in a 60°C constant-temperature circulating water bath, open the valve to release hydrogen into the air until the hydrogen flow rate drops to less than 1 SLM. Continue to run the vacuum pump for 30 minutes to complete the activation of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank.

[0072] Step S5: Place the tank in a 10℃ constant temperature circulating water bath, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 3MPa, set the hydrogen filling flow meter to full scale of 200SLM, and fill the tank with hydrogen. Attach a thermocouple to the middle of the tank's outer wall to monitor temperature changes. During the filling process, the instantaneous hydrogen flow rate, cumulative flow rate, and tank pressure changes are monitored and recorded by the solid-state hydrogen storage device performance testing system. When the instantaneous hydrogen flow rate continuously decreases and stabilizes, close the tank valve to stop filling.

[0073] A method for releasing hydrogen from the aforementioned solid hydrogen storage tank, simulating long-term hydrogen supply conditions of a low-power fuel cell, specifically for a lightweight hydrogen fuel cell electric bicycle, includes the following steps: Step T1: Place the hydrogen-filled solid hydrogen storage tank in a fan-driven, high-convective-air environment at room temperature. Set the hydrogen release flow meter to 2.5 SLM and open the tank valve to release hydrogen. During the hydrogen release process, the instantaneous flow rate, cumulative flow rate, tank pressure, and surface temperature changes of the solid hydrogen storage device are monitored and recorded by the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system. When the instantaneous hydrogen flow rate continuously decreases to ≤1 SLM, close the tank valve to stop hydrogen release.

[0074] After step T2, once the hydrogen release is complete, calculate the hydrogen release efficiency of the solid hydrogen storage tank.

[0075] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Example 1. Figure 7 It includes performance test diagrams of the hydrogen charging process in Example 1. Figure 8 The figure includes a performance test diagram of the hydrogen release process in Example 1.

[0076] Example 2 The solid hydrogen storage tank, its preparation method, and hydrogen filling method in this embodiment are exactly the same as those in Embodiment 1. The difference is that this embodiment simulates a short-term rapid hydrogen supply scenario during the hydrogen crushing process of NdFeB alloy sheets, specifically the hydrogen crushing of alloy sheets in the initial stage of manufacturing small NdFeB magnets. In the hydrogen release method, the flow rate of the hydrogen release flow meter is set to 50 SLM. The rest of the hydrogen release method is exactly the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0077] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Example 2. Figure 9 The figure includes a performance test diagram of the hydrogen release process in Example 2.

[0078] Example 3 The solid hydrogen storage tank, its preparation method, and hydrogen filling method in this embodiment are exactly the same as those in Embodiment 1. The difference is that this embodiment simulates a short-term rapid hydrogen supply scenario during the hydrogen crushing process of NdFeB alloy sheets, specifically the hydrogen crushing of alloy sheets in the initial stage of manufacturing small NdFeB magnets. In the hydrogen release method, 40°C circulating water heat exchange is used, and the flow rate of the hydrogen release flow meter is set to 50 SLM. The rest of the hydrogen release method is exactly the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0079] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Example 3. Figure 10 The figure includes a performance test diagram of the hydrogen release process in Example 3.

[0080] Example 4 The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that the solid hydrogen storage tank in this embodiment also includes a metal mesh gas guide pipe 4. That is, the solid hydrogen storage tank is composed of a valve, a tank body, a metal mesh cylinder array, a metal mesh gas guide pipe, and particulate hydrogen storage alloy dispersed and filled in the metal mesh cylinder array. The remaining parameters of the solid hydrogen storage tank in this embodiment are exactly the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0081] In this embodiment, the solid hydrogen storage tank preparation method replaces step 3 of the preparation method of Example 1 with the following steps after step 2 and before step 4: Step 2': Select a flexible and bendable microporous aluminum mesh with a rhomboid mesh shape, an inscribed circle diameter of 1mm, a wire diameter of 0.5mm, and a mesh thickness of 1mm. Cut it into 29cm long pieces and fold them in half along the long side to form a solid, dense mesh tube. Then, put it into a copper woven bag and seal it with a 0.2mm diameter copper wire. The length is 29.7mm and the diameter is 8mm. The metal mesh air guide tube is now complete. The total weight of the metal mesh air guide tube is 15g.

[0082] Step 3': Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the lower circumference from the bottle mouth, ensuring that they are in close contact with each other. After the lower half of the can is filled, insert the metal mesh air guide tube to ensure that it is located on the central axis of the can. Then continue to insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the upper circumference until the can is filled with metal mesh tubes one by one, and ensure that the metal mesh array inside the can does not shift when the can shakes.

[0083] The method for filling and discharging hydrogen in the solid hydrogen storage tank of this embodiment is exactly the same as that in Embodiment 1.

[0084] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Example 4. Figure 11 This includes performance test diagrams of the hydrogen charging process in Example 4. Figure 12 The figure includes a performance test diagram of the hydrogen release process in Example 4.

[0085] Comparative Example 1 The solid hydrogen storage tank in this comparative example differs from that in Example 1 in that it does not include a metal mesh array; however, the technical parameters of the remaining valves, tank body, and granular hydrogen storage alloy are identical to those in Example 1. The charging and discharging methods for the solid hydrogen storage tank in this comparative example are exactly the same as those in Example 1.

[0086] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Comparative Example 1. Figure 7 and Figure 11 It includes performance test diagrams of a comparative hydrogen charging process. Figure 8 and Figure 12 The diagram includes a performance test diagram of the hydrogen release process in Comparative Example 1.

[0087] Comparative Example 2 The solid hydrogen storage tank in this comparative example is exactly the same as that in Comparative Example 1, and the charging and discharging methods of the solid hydrogen storage tank in this comparative example are exactly the same as those in Example 2.

[0088] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Comparative Example 2. Figure 9 The diagram includes performance test results of the hydrogen release process in Comparative Example 2.

[0089] Comparative Example 3 The solid hydrogen storage tank in this comparative example is exactly the same as that in Comparative Example 1, and the charging and discharging methods of the solid hydrogen storage tank in this comparative example are exactly the same as those in Example 3.

[0090] Table 1 includes the performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging process in Comparative Example 3. Figure 10 The figure includes a performance test diagram of the hydrogen release process in Comparative Example 3.

[0091] Table 1 Performance parameters of the hydrogen charging and discharging processes in the examples and comparative examples

[0092] In Table 1, SLM represents the volumetric flow rate of the gas under standard conditions, in standard liters per minute; SL represents the volume of the gas under standard conditions, in standard liters.

[0093] As can be seen from Table 1, under the same hydrogen charging conditions, Example 1 3 Comparison Example 1 Example 3 showed a 3.5% increase in hydrogen charging capacity, a 50% reduction in charging time, a 107% increase in average charging rate, and a 57% reduction in tank surface temperature equilibration time compared to Example 1. Example 4, compared to Example 1, showed a 5.2% increase in hydrogen charging capacity, a 50% reduction in charging time, a 110.4% increase in average charging rate, and a 52.9% reduction in tank surface temperature equilibration time. Furthermore, Example 4 showed a 1.6% increase in average charging rate and a 1.6% increase in hydrogen charging capacity compared to Example 1.

[0094] As shown in Table 1, under the same hydrogen release conditions, Example 1 increased the hydrogen release amount by 6.1%, the average hydrogen release rate by 7%, the constant-rate hydrogen release / hydrogen release amount ratio by 16.2%, the time for the tank surface to reach the lowest temperature by 27.6%, and the time for pressure equilibrium in the tank by 34.3% compared to Comparative Example 1; Example 2 increased the hydrogen release amount by 7.1%, the average hydrogen release rate by 2.8%, and the time for the tank surface to reach the lowest temperature and the time for pressure equilibrium in the tank were basically the same for both; Example 3 increased the hydrogen release amount by 1.8%, the average hydrogen release rate by 25.2%, and the time for the tank surface to reach the lowest temperature and the time for pressure equilibrium in the tank were basically the same for both; Example 4 increased the hydrogen release amount by 6.9%, the average hydrogen release rate by 9.5%, the constant-rate hydrogen release / hydrogen release amount ratio by 19.7%, the time for the tank surface to reach the lowest temperature by 38.8%, and the time for pressure equilibrium in the tank by 41.8% compared to Comparative Example 1. Furthermore, in Example 4, the average hydrogen release rate was increased by 2.3% compared to Example 1, the constant-rate hydrogen release / hydrogen release amount was increased by 3.5%, and the hydrogen release amount was increased by 0.7%. The examples and comparative examples simulated the hydrogen release performance of the solid-state hydrogen storage tank under different hydrogen release rates and heat exchange conditions. All examples exhibited more outstanding hydrogen release effects, demonstrating that the solid-state hydrogen storage tank of the present invention has comprehensive environmental application advantages.

[0095] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A solid hydrogen storage tank, characterized in that, The solid hydrogen storage tank includes a valve, a tank body, a metal mesh array, and granular hydrogen storage alloy dispersedly filled within the metal mesh array. The tank body is a cylindrical, straight-sided bottle shape with a narrow neck. The valve is fitted with the bottle neck of the tank body. The metal mesh array is densely filled inside the tank body and tightly adheres to the inner wall of the tank body.

2. The solid hydrogen storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The metal mesh array comprises multiple metal mesh tubes, and the hydrogen storage alloy is filled inside the metal mesh tubes and between adjacent metal mesh tubes; and / or, the total weight of the metal mesh array does not exceed 15% of the tank weight.

3. The solid hydrogen storage tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, The metal mesh tube is a hollow tube bundle formed by rolling a single layer of metal mesh, and the cross-section of the metal mesh tube is circular or polygonal; and / or, the diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40% to 90% of the inner diameter of the bottle mouth, and the length of the metal mesh tube is 70% to 90% of the height of the can.

4. The solid hydrogen storage tank according to claim 3, characterized in that, The metal mesh is made of one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or their alloys; and / or, the thickness of the metal mesh is 0.1 mm. 1 mm; and / or, the inscribed circle diameter of the metal mesh is 0.5 mm. The metal wire diameter of the metal mesh is 0.1 mm, with a diameter of 2.5 mm. 1mm.

5. The solid hydrogen storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The solid hydrogen storage tank also includes a metal mesh gas guide pipe, which is disposed in the metal mesh cylinder array and located in the central region of the tank.

6. The solid hydrogen storage tank according to claim 5, characterized in that, The metal mesh gas guide tube is formed by tightly rolling multiple layers of metal mesh into a solid tube bundle, then sealing it in a woven bag made of copper wire, glass fiber, or carbon fiber; and / or, the diameter of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 50% to 150% of the diameter of a single metal mesh tube, and does not exceed the inner diameter of the bottle opening; the length of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 80% to 90% of the height of the can body, and is not less than the length of a single metal mesh tube; and / or, the metal mesh material used in the construction of the metal mesh gas guide tube is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or alloys; and / or, the mesh size of the metal mesh used in the construction of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 20% to 100% of the mesh size of the metal mesh used in the construction of a single metal mesh tube, and the wire diameter of the metal mesh used in the construction of the metal mesh gas guide tube is 0.1 mm. 0.5mm, the thickness of the metal mesh used in the metal mesh air guide tube structure is 50% to 100% of the thickness of the metal mesh used in the metal mesh cylinder single tube structure; and / or, the total weight of the metal mesh air guide tube does not exceed 5% of the weight of the tank.

7. A method for preparing a solid hydrogen storage tank as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The preparation method includes the following steps: Step 1: Select an aluminum alloy or stainless steel tank and use high-pressure air to purge impurities from inside the tank. Step 2: Select a metal mesh. The metal mesh material is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or alloys. The thickness of the metal mesh is 0.1~1mm, and the diameter of the inscribed circle of the metal mesh opening is 0.5~2.5mm. Cut the metal mesh into several strips with a length of 70%~90% of the height of the can. Fold and roll them along the long side to form several hollow metal mesh tubes. The cross-section of the tube is circular or polygonal. The diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40%~90% of the diameter of the bottle mouth. Then, use thin metal wire to wrap and tie it along the folded long side. Step 3: Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one from the lower circumference of the bottle mouth, ensuring they are in close contact with each other, until the can is filled with metal mesh tubes and the array of metal mesh tubes inside the can does not shift when the can is shaken. Step 4: Select the hydrogen storage alloy, crush the alloy block into fine particles using a jaw crusher, further sieve it using a 2.5mm standard sieve, collect the sieved material and mix it evenly, then load it into the tank, so that the hydrogen storage alloy is evenly distributed inside and between the metal mesh tubes, with the hydrogen storage alloy filling volume accounting for 60%~85% of the tank's internal volume; Step 5: Use high-pressure air to blow away impurities from the bottle neck threads, screw the valve containing the filter onto the bottle neck, and fully embed the sealing ring of the upper step of the valve threads into the sealing groove of the can body.

8. A method for preparing a solid hydrogen storage tank as described in any one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that, The preparation method includes the following steps: Step 1: Select an aluminum alloy or stainless steel tank and use high-pressure air to purge impurities from inside the tank. Step 2: Select a metal mesh. The metal mesh material is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or alloys. The thickness of the metal mesh is 0.1~1mm, and the diameter of the inscribed circle of the metal mesh opening is 0.5~2.5mm. Cut the metal mesh into several strips with a length of 70%~90% of the height of the can. Fold and roll them along the long side to form several hollow metal mesh tubes. The cross-section of the tube is circular or polygonal. The diameter of the metal mesh tube or the diameter of its circumscribed circle is 40%~90% of the diameter of the bottle mouth. Then, use thin metal wire to wrap and tie it along the folded long side. Step 2': Select a metal mesh. The metal mesh material is one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, iron, or their alloys. The thickness of the metal mesh is 50% to 100% of the thickness of the metal mesh used in the single-tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder, and the wire diameter is 0.1 mm. 0.5mm, the mesh size is 20%~100% of the mesh size of the metal mesh used in the single tube structure of the metal mesh cylinder; cut the metal mesh into sheets, fold them in half along the long side and roll them into a solid dense mesh cylinder, then put them into a copper wire, glass fiber or carbon fiber woven bag, and tie and seal it with a thin metal wire. Its length is 80%~90% of the height of the tank, and not less than the length of the single tube of the metal mesh cylinder, and its diameter is 50%~150% of the single tube of the metal mesh cylinder, and not more than the inner diameter of the mouth of the solid hydrogen storage tank. The metal mesh gas guide tube is now complete. Step 3': Place the can horizontally and insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the lower circumference from the bottle mouth, ensuring they are in close contact with each other. After the lower half of the can is filled, insert the metal mesh air guide tube to ensure it is located on the central axis of the can. Then continue to insert the metal mesh tubes one by one along the upper circumference until the can is filled with metal mesh tubes one by one, and the metal mesh array inside the can does not shift when the can is shaken. Step 4: Select the hydrogen storage alloy, crush the alloy block into fine particles using a jaw crusher, further sieve it using a 2.5mm standard sieve, collect the sieved material and mix it evenly, then load it into the tank, so that the hydrogen storage alloy is evenly distributed inside and between the metal mesh tubes, with the hydrogen storage alloy filling volume accounting for 60%~85% of the tank's internal volume; Step 5: Use high-pressure air to blow away impurities from the bottle neck threads, screw the valve containing the filter onto the bottle neck, and fully embed the sealing ring of the upper step of the valve threads into the sealing groove of the can body.

9. A method for filling a solid hydrogen storage tank as described in any one of claims 1-6 or a solid hydrogen storage tank prepared by the method described in any one of claims 7-8 with hydrogen, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: Step S1: Connect the loaded solid hydrogen storage tank to the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 30~120 minutes to remove the air from the tank. Step S2: Check the airtightness of the solid hydrogen storage tank. Pressurize the tank by introducing hydrogen gas, maintaining the pressure at 0.5~1.0 MPa for 5~10 minutes, and use a hydrogen leak alarm to detect the area around the tank. If the pressure exceeds the working pressure by 0.5~1 MPa, maintain the pressure for 20~40 minutes. After the airtightness check is passed, release the hydrogen gas from the tank. Step S3: Wrap the solid hydrogen storage tank with a heating jacket, set the heating temperature to 100~200℃, start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 0.5~3 hours, and remove the residual hydrogen and air adsorbed on the alloy surface inside the tank. Step S4: After the tank returns to room temperature, place it in a constant temperature circulating water bath at 5~25℃, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 2~5MPa and fill the tank with hydrogen until the hydrogen flow rate drops to zero; then place it in a constant temperature circulating water bath at 30~70℃, open the valve to release hydrogen into the air until the hydrogen flow rate drops to less than 1SLM, and continue to start the vacuum pump to evacuate for 30~120 minutes, thus completing the activation of the solid hydrogen storage tank; Step S5: Place the tank in a constant temperature circulating water bath at 5~25℃, adjust the hydrogen pressure to 2~5MPa, set the hydrogen filling flow meter to full scale, and fill the tank with hydrogen. During the hydrogen filling process, the changes in the surface temperature of the tank, the instantaneous flow rate of hydrogen, the cumulative flow rate, and the changes in the pressure inside the tank are monitored and recorded by the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system. When the instantaneous flow rate of hydrogen continuously decreases to a stable level, close the tank valve to stop the hydrogen filling.

10. A method for releasing hydrogen from a solid hydrogen storage tank as described in any one of claims 1-6 or a solid hydrogen storage tank prepared by the method described in any one of claims 7-8, characterized in that, The method includes: placing a solid hydrogen storage tank filled with hydrogen in a heat exchange environment, setting the flow rate of the hydrogen release flow meter to below 100 SLM, and opening the tank valve to release hydrogen; during the hydrogen release process, the instantaneous flow rate, cumulative flow rate, tank pressure, and tank surface temperature changes are monitored and recorded by the solid hydrogen storage device performance testing system; when the instantaneous flow rate of hydrogen continuously decreases to ≤1 SLM, the tank valve is closed to stop hydrogen release.

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