Numerical investigation of thermal and electrical management during hydrogen reversible solid-state storage using a novel heat exchanger based on thermoelectric modules

Abstract

In order to reduce the costs generated by the hydrogen solid storage tank's accessories such as the heat exchanger, this work was carried out. It shows thermal and electrical investigations of transient hydrogen (H2) solid storage in a tank filled with porous medium (LaNi5) to activate a potential PEM automotive fuel cell. For this purpose, we use a novel heat exchanger with a heat sink combined with thermoelectric modules (TEMs). We realize a simulation that helps us verify if thermoelectric exchanger will be an alternative to the conventional ones. The main results are that a thermoelectric cooler and heater with 127 couples of semiconductors coupled with 19 fins heat sink could be used during the reversible hydrogen solid storage. Also, results show that we can avoid the water freezing at negative temperatures when using a conventional heat exchanger by using TEM during hydrogen absorption. Finally, during the endothermic desorption of the hydrogen, TEG use can avoid boiling water used in the heating system. Also, the hydrogen tank will be lighter and compact without fins and water tubes.