Testing system cooperating with research and development of metal solid hydrogen storage material
By designing a testing system for synergistic solid-state hydrogen storage materials, and using vacuum and temperature control to simulate actual usage conditions, the problem of insufficient high-temperature and high-pressure activation in existing technologies is solved. This enables effective activation and performance testing of hydrogen storage alloy materials, improving the reliability and efficiency of the testing.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CNEEC RES (XUZHOU) HYDROGEN ENERGY TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-17
AI Technical Summary
Existing PCT testing equipment activates metallic hydrogen storage alloy materials under high temperature and high pressure, which cannot truly reflect their performance under actual low temperature and low pressure environments, resulting in insufficient material activation.
A testing system for the collaborative development of solid metal hydrogen storage materials was designed. The system provides a vacuum and temperature control environment through a testing component consisting of an inner cylinder, flange cover, water circulation component, filter, and visual component. Combined with vacuum pumping and hydrogen charging/discharging modules, the system simulates actual usage conditions to conduct material activation and performance testing.
It enables effective activation and performance testing of hydrogen storage alloy materials under simulated actual use conditions, avoiding the problem of insufficient activation caused by high temperature and high pressure. Furthermore, it prevents material pulverization and leakage through visual observation and filtration, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of the test.
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Figure CN224137285U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of research and development technology of solid metal hydrogen storage materials, and in particular to a testing system for the collaborative research and development of solid metal hydrogen storage materials. Background Technology
[0002] With the growth of global energy demand and the intensification of environmental problems, the storage and utilization of clean energy has become an important direction for scientific research and technological development. Metal solid-state hydrogen storage technology, as a highly efficient and safe hydrogen storage method, has shown great potential in fields such as renewable energy storage and fuel cells. The core of this technology lies in using specific metals or alloys as hydrogen storage materials to achieve the storage and release of hydrogen during hydrogen absorption and release processes.
[0003] The mass hydrogen absorption ratio of metallic hydrogen storage alloys is a key indicator for evaluating material performance. Current testing methods involve placing the material in a PCT (pressure-composition-temperature) testing device. Generally, the material is activated first through high temperature, vacuum, and high pressure, and then its hydrogen absorption performance is measured. Existing PCT testing devices typically provide high temperature and high pressure environments to rapidly activate the material. However, these extreme conditions cannot prove the material's performance at lower pressures and temperatures. In practical applications, the operating conditions of solid-state hydrogen storage devices are usually far lower than the high temperature and high pressure environment in the laboratory. This may lead to insufficient activation of materials that pass the PCT test in actual use. Utility Model Content
[0004] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings of existing technologies by proposing a testing system for the collaborative development of solid metal hydrogen storage materials.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:
[0006] A testing system for the collaborative development of solid-state hydrogen storage materials includes a testing component. The testing component includes an inner cylinder with a detachable upper flange cover at the top. The inner cylinder and the upper flange cover have symmetrically arranged mounting holes. A detachable lower flange cover is also provided at the bottom of the inner cylinder, with mounting holes symmetrically arranged with the upper flange cover. Flange gaskets are provided on one side of both the upper and lower flange covers, and fastening bolts are installed through the mounting holes. A water circulation component for providing temperature conditions is provided on one side of the inner cylinder. A first filter connector is connected to the bottom of the inner cylinder, and a second filter connector is connected to the top of the inner cylinder. A filter cylinder is connected to one side of the second filter connector, with one end of the filter cylinder connected to the inner cylinder. Two sets of filter cylinders are provided, with the other set connected to the first filter connector. Filter plates are provided on the inner wall of the inner cylinder. Connecting cavities are provided at both ends of the inner cylinder. Hydrogen storage alloy material is placed inside the inner cylinder. A visual component for easy observation is provided on one side of the connecting cavity.
[0007] As a further embodiment of this utility model: the water circulation component includes a water inlet connector, which is connected to the lower end of the inner cylinder, and a water return connector is connected to the upper end of the inner cylinder.
[0008] As a further embodiment of this utility model: the visible component includes glass, which is installed in the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder. The size and position of the glass are adapted to the connecting cavity. A pressure cap is provided on one side of the connecting cavity. The position of the pressure cap is adapted to the glass. Fixing holes are symmetrically opened between the pressure cap and the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder, and screws are installed through the fixing holes.
[0009] As a further improvement of this utility model: the bottom of the lower flange cover is detachably provided with a support leg, and the bottom of the support leg is provided with an anti-slip pad.
[0010] As a further improvement of this utility model: an inner sealing gasket is provided at the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder, and an outer sealing gasket is provided on one side of the pressure cap. The inner sealing gasket and the outer sealing gasket are respectively provided on both sides of the glass, and the glass is made of high borosilicate glass.
[0011] As a further improvement of this utility model: the glass is provided with scale lines, and a protective film is provided on one side of the glass.
[0012] As a further improvement of this utility model: the end of the return water connector is provided with a spiral pattern, and the end of the inlet water connector is also provided with a spiral pattern.
[0013] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:
[0014] 1. A sealed environment can be created by combining the inner cylinder and the upper and lower flange covers. After the hydrogen storage alloy material is placed inside, it is connected to the vacuum module and the hydrogen charging / discharging module. By evacuating the inner cylinder, a vacuum environment can be created, thus providing vacuum conditions for material activation. With the addition of hydrogen by the hydrogen charging / discharging module, the hydrogen storage alloy material can be tested. Unlike traditional PCT testing devices, it does not require a high temperature and high pressure environment to quickly activate the material. This avoids the problem of insufficient activation of qualified materials due to the influence of low environmental pressure and temperature in actual use. The filter sheet and filter cartridge can play a filtering role to prevent material leakage due to the continuous pulverization of the hydrogen storage alloy material during vacuuming and hydrogen charging / discharging.
[0015] 2. By setting up inlet and outlet water connectors, a hot and cold water unit module can be connected. By controlling the circulation of cold and hot water, a stable hydrogen absorption and desorption temperature condition can be provided for the inner cylinder, which facilitates the testing of hydrogen storage alloy materials.
[0016] 3. By installing transparent glass in the inner cylinder, visualization can be achieved, facilitating real-time observation and recording of the testing process. It can also be connected to a high-definition camera for recording. The detachable upper flange cover allows for easy and non-destructive removal of the hydrogen storage alloy material for sampling, greatly reducing the difficulty of sampling the activated hydrogen storage alloy material. Attached Figure Description
[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main view of the testing system for the development of a collaborative metal solid hydrogen storage material proposed in this utility model.
[0018] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a testing system for the development of a synergistic solid-state hydrogen storage material proposed in this utility model.
[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the visible part of the testing system for the development of a synergistic solid-state hydrogen storage material proposed in this utility model.
[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the steps of a testing system for the development of a synergistic solid-state hydrogen storage material proposed in this utility model.
[0021] In the diagram: 1. Inner cylinder; 2. Water inlet connector; 3. Lower flange cover; 4. Support leg; 5. First filter connector; 6. Pressure cap; 7. Water return connector; 8. Fastening bolt; 9. Second filter connector; 10. Upper flange cover; 11. Flange gasket; 12. Filter cylinder; 13. Glass; 14. Screw; 15. Filter disc; 16. Inner gasket; 17. Hydrogen storage alloy material; 18. Outer gasket. Detailed Implementation
[0022] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.
[0023] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.
[0024] Example 1
[0025] A testing system for the collaborative development of metallic solid-state hydrogen storage materials, such as Figure 1-3As shown, the test assembly includes an inner cylinder 1. The top of the inner cylinder 1 is detachably provided with an upper flange cover 10. The inner cylinder 1 and the upper flange cover 10 are symmetrically provided with mounting holes. The bottom of the inner cylinder 1 is detachably provided with a lower flange cover 3. The lower flange cover 3 is also symmetrically provided with mounting holes. Fastening bolts 8 are provided through the mounting holes. A water circulation assembly for providing temperature conditions is provided on one side of the inner cylinder 1. A first filter connector 5 is connected to the bottom of the inner cylinder 1. A second filter connector 9 is connected to the top of the inner cylinder 1. A filter cylinder 12 is connected to one side of the second filter connector 9. One end of the filter cylinder 12 is connected to the inner cylinder 1. There are two sets of filter cylinders 12. The other set is connected to the first filter connector 5. A filter sheet 15 is provided on the inner wall of the inner cylinder 1. A connecting cavity is provided at both ends of the inner cylinder 1. A visual component for easy observation is provided on one side of the connecting cavity.
[0026] In use, the filter element 15 is installed on the inner wall of the inner cylinder 1 near the lower end. The hydrogen storage alloy material 17 to be tested is placed inside the inner cylinder 1, and the hydrogen storage alloy material 17 is placed on the filter element 15. The lower flange cover 3 and the upper flange cover 10 are installed on the top and bottom of the inner cylinder 1 with fastening bolts 8 to seal them. A flange sealing gasket 11 is provided on one side of the upper flange cover 10 and the lower flange cover 3. The flange sealing gasket 11 can increase the sealing performance. After the hydrogen storage alloy material 17 is placed in and the seal is completed, the vacuum module can be connected through the second filter connector 9 and the first filter connector 5 respectively. The hydrogen charging / discharging module and the vacuum module consist of a vacuum pump, a self-control valve-1, a check valve-1, and gas pipelines. The vacuum pump is used for evacuation. The self-control valve-1 is interlocked with the vacuum pump; the vacuum pump starts first, and the self-control valve opens after running for a period of time. The check valve-1 is used to prevent the backflow of external gas. This module is used to evacuate the inner cylinder 1, thereby providing vacuum conditions for material activation. The hydrogen charging / discharging module includes a hydrogen charging pipeline, on which a self-control valve-5, a pressure regulator-1, a flow meter-1, and a check valve-3 are configured to achieve automatic control during the hydrogen charging process and to monitor the flow rate and pressure. Real-time monitoring of force is implemented. The hydrogen release pipeline is equipped with an automatic control valve-6, a pressure regulator-2, and a flow meter-2 to achieve automatic control during the hydrogen release process and real-time monitoring of flow and pressure. This module is a key component in controlling the hydrogen filling and releasing of the inner cylinder 1. The filter element 15 supports the hydrogen storage alloy material 17 and filters it to prevent pulverization and leakage. The filter cartridge 12 further filters the hydrogen storage alloy material 17 to prevent leakage due to continuous pulverization during vacuuming and hydrogen filling / releasing, while also serving as an external connection point. The first filter connector 5 is connected to the hydrogen charging / discharging module, and the second filter connector 9 is connected to the vacuuming module. The second filter connector 9 is also connected to a safety relief module. The safety relief module consists of a mechanical safety valve, a self-control valve-2, normally open valves-1 / 2 / 3 / 4, and a relief pipeline. When an overpressure occurs during the test, the mechanical safety valve will automatically open. The self-control valve-2 can be used for passive relief under overpressure conditions as well as active relief in emergency situations. The normally open valve is used to disconnect the mechanical safety valve and the self-control valve-2 during maintenance. This module ensures the safety of the test system.
[0027] The water circulation component includes a water inlet connector 2, which is connected to the lower end of the inner cylinder 1, and a water return connector 7 is connected to the upper end of the inner cylinder 1.
[0028] In use, the hot and cold water unit module can be connected through the inlet connector 2 and the return connector 7. The hot and cold water unit module consists of a hot and cold water unit, check valve-2, circulation pump, automatic control valve-3, automatic control valve-4, and water pipelines. The hot and cold water unit provides cold and hot water. The circulation pipelines are connected to the inlet connector 2 and the return connector 7 respectively. Water is circulated through the circulation pump. Automatic control valve-3 is used for automatic water replenishment, and automatic control valve-4 is used for automatic sewage discharge. This module provides stable hydrogen absorption and desorption temperature conditions for the inner cylinder 1. The inner cylinder 1 can be connected to a PLC control module. The solenoid valves, flow meters, pressure regulators, hot and cold water units, circulation pumps, and vacuum pumps configured in the above modules are controlled by the PLC to realize the automated operation of the test system.
[0029] The visible component includes glass 13, which is installed in the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder 1. The size and position of the glass 13 are adapted to the connecting cavity. A pressure cap 6 is provided on one side of the connecting cavity. The position of the pressure cap 6 is adapted to the glass 13. The pressure cap 6 and the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder 1 are symmetrically provided with fixing holes, and screws 14 are provided through the fixing holes.
[0030] In use, the glass 13 can be installed in the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder 1. After installation, align the fixing holes of the cover 6 with the fixing holes of the connecting cavity, and tighten the screws 14 to fix the cover 6. The cover 6 presses against the glass 13 to fix it, thus firmly fixing it in the connecting cavity. The real-time test situation inside the inner cylinder 1 can be observed through the transparent glass 13, thereby achieving visualization and solving the problem that traditional methods cannot achieve visualization. At the same time, a high-definition camera can be pointed at the glass 13 to monitor the entire test process and record experimental phenomena. The detachable upper flange cover 10 facilitates the non-destructive removal of the hydrogen storage alloy material 17 for sampling, greatly reducing the difficulty of sampling the activated hydrogen storage alloy material 17.
[0031] To increase stability, such as Figure 1 As shown, the bottom of the lower flange cover 3 is detachably provided with a support leg 4, and the bottom of the support leg 4 is provided with an anti-slip pad;
[0032] During use, support legs 4 can be installed to support the device during the testing process, thereby maintaining stability;
[0033] To increase the stability and sealing of the glass 13 installation, such as Figure 2 , 3 As shown, an inner sealing gasket 16 is provided at the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder 1, and an outer sealing gasket 18 is provided on one side of the pressure cover 6. The inner sealing gasket 16 and the outer sealing gasket 18 are respectively provided on both sides of the glass 13, and the glass 13 is made of high borosilicate glass.
[0034] When installing and fixing the glass 13, it can be reinforced by the inner sealing gasket 16 and the outer sealing gasket 18 on both sides, which can make the installation and fixing of the glass 13 more secure and increase the sealing performance to prevent air leakage.
[0035] To view the specific volume, such as Figure 2 As shown, the glass 13 is provided with scale lines, and a protective film is provided on one side of the glass 13;
[0036] When in use, the scale lines set on the glass 13 can help observe the specific volume inside the inner cylinder 1, making it easy to check the specific volume.
[0037] Example 2
[0038] To prevent leakage during water circulation, refer to... Figure 1 A testing system for the collaborative development of solid metal hydrogen storage materials. This embodiment makes the following improvements compared to embodiment 1: the end of the return water connector 7 is provided with a spiral pattern, and the end of the inlet water connector 2 is also provided with a spiral pattern.
[0039] When using the water inlet connector 2 and the return connector 7, the spiral pattern at the end of the water inlet connector 2 can be used to reinforce the connection and prevent leakage caused by disconnection during water supply.
[0040] The specific steps of the testing system are as follows: test preparation stage → system initialization stage → material activation stage → performance testing stage → post-test processing stage → data analysis and optimization stage;
[0041] 1. Test Preparation Phase
[0042] Material loading: The hydrogen storage alloy material is loaded into the inner cylinder, and filter plates and filter devices are installed to prevent pulverization and leakage;
[0043] Sealing connection: Install flange structure and check the water / hydrogen pipeline sealing;
[0044] Sensor calibration: Verifying measuring devices such as pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and flow meters;
[0045] 2. System Initialization
[0046] Turn on the PLC control system and set the test parameters (target temperature, pressure, number of cycles, etc.);
[0047] Start the hot and cold water unit module to establish a circulating water system (water is replenished through automatic control valve-3 and sewage is discharged through automatic control valve-4);
[0048] Start the vacuum module: Vacuum pump pre-run → Open self-control valve-1 → Maintain vacuum level to the set value;
[0049] 3. Material activation stage
[0050] Hydrogen charging operation:
[0051] Open the automatic control valve-5 and adjust to the target pressure through the pressure regulator-1;
[0052] Monitor the real-time flow rate of flow meter-1 and record the hydrogen charging time curve;
[0053] Temperature control: The test device is cooled by adjusting the jacket water temperature through a hot and cold water unit;
[0054] Visual monitoring: Recording material state changes (expansion / pulverization, etc.) using high-definition cameras;
[0055] 4. Performance Testing Phase
[0056] Stepped hydrogen charge / discharge cycle:
[0057] Hydrogen charging: Increment according to a preset pressure gradient (e.g., 0.1 MPa / step);
[0058] Pressure holding: Maintain pressure at each point for 30 minutes (adjustable);
[0059] Hydrogen release: The pressure was reduced through the self-control valve -6, and the hydrogen release kinetic curve was recorded;
[0060] Real-time data acquisition:
[0061] Pressure-Composition-Temperature (PCT) data;
[0062] Circulating water flow rate / temperature data;
[0063] Video recording of material deformation;
[0064] 5. Post-test processing
[0065] Hydrogen release: Start the hot and cold water unit module to establish a circulating water system (water is replenished through automatic control valve-3 and sewage is discharged through automatic control valve-4). The test device is heated to release hydrogen by adjusting the jacket water temperature through the hot and cold water unit.
[0066] Open the self-control valve-6, adjust it to the target pressure through the pressure regulator-2, monitor the real-time flow of the flow meter-2, and record the hydrogen release time curve;
[0067] Record the amount of hydrogen released, and proceed with subsequent operations after all the hydrogen has been released from the test material.
[0068] If hydrogen needs to be released, the pressure will be gradually reduced through the safety release module;
[0069] Material sampling: Disassemble the flange structure and remove the activated material without damage;
[0070] Parameter testing: Physical property testing such as density, thermal conductivity, and expansion rate;
[0071] System cleaning: Drainage of circulating water system + purging of hydrogen pipelines;
[0072] 6. Data Analysis and Optimization
[0073] Combine visualization recordings to analyze material failure modes (such as pulverization paths);
[0074] Feedback optimization parameters to the material preparation process;
[0075] This process enables full-cycle testing from material activation to performance evaluation, significantly improving the R&D efficiency of solid-state hydrogen storage materials.
[0076] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model. For parts that do not require creative effort in circuit control, signal control and transmission, please refer to the prior art. However, the protection scope of the present utility model is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or changes made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present utility model, based on the technical solution and the inventive concept of the present utility model, should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.
Claims
1. A test system for the development of synergistic metal solid state hydrogen storage materials, comprising a test assembly, characterized in that, The test assembly includes an inner cylinder (1), with a detachable upper flange cover (10) on the top of the inner cylinder (1). The inner cylinder (1) and the upper flange cover (10) have symmetrically arranged mounting holes. A detachable lower flange cover (3) is provided at the bottom of the inner cylinder (1), also symmetrically arranged with mounting holes as the upper flange cover (10). A flange sealing gasket (11) is provided on one side of both the upper flange cover (10) and the lower flange cover (3), and fastening bolts (8) are installed through the mounting holes. A water circulation assembly for providing temperature conditions is provided on one side of the inner cylinder (1). The bottom of the cylinder (1) is connected to a first filter connector (5), the top of the inner cylinder (1) is connected to a second filter connector (9), a filter cylinder (12) is connected to one side of the second filter connector (9), one end of the filter cylinder (12) is connected to the inner cylinder (1), two sets of filter cylinders (12) are provided, and the other set is connected to the first filter connector (5). The inner wall of the inner cylinder (1) is provided with filter plates (15), and the two ends of the inner cylinder (1) are provided with connecting cavities. The inner cylinder (1) is provided with hydrogen storage alloy material (17), and a visual component for easy observation is provided on one side of the connecting cavity.
2. The test system for the development of a synergic metal solid hydrogen storage material according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water circulation assembly includes a water inlet connector (2), which is connected to the lower end of the inner cylinder (1), and a water return connector (7) is connected to the upper end of the inner cylinder (1).
3. The test system for the development of a synergic metal solid hydrogen storage material according to claim 1, characterized in that, The visible component includes glass (13), which is installed in the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder (1). The size and position of the glass (13) are adapted to the connecting cavity. A pressure cap (6) is provided on one side of the connecting cavity. The position of the pressure cap (6) is adapted to the glass (13). The pressure cap (6) and the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder (1) are symmetrically provided with fixing holes, and screws (14) are provided through the fixing holes.
4. The test system for the development of a synergic metal solid hydrogen storage material according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the lower flange cover (3) is detachably provided with a support leg (4), and the bottom of the support leg (4) is provided with an anti-slip pad.
5. The test system for the development of a synergic metal solid hydrogen storage material according to claim 3, characterized in that, An inner sealing gasket (16) is provided at the connecting cavity of the inner cylinder (1), and an outer sealing gasket (18) is provided on one side of the pressure cap (6). The inner sealing gasket (16) and the outer sealing gasket (18) are respectively provided on both sides of the glass (13), and the glass (13) is made of high borosilicate glass.
6. The test system for the development of a synergic metal solid hydrogen storage material according to claim 3, characterized in that, The glass (13) is provided with scale lines, and a protective film is provided on one side of the glass (13).
7. The test system for the development of a synergic metal solid hydrogen storage material according to claim 2, characterized in that, The return water connector (7) has a spiral pattern at its end, and the inlet water connector (2) also has a spiral pattern at its end.