Technology
What is it?
Hydrogen physisorption involves hydrogen physically adsorbing to either the surface of a molecule or within pores. Metal organic frameworks are composed of inorganic metal clusters and organic linkers that act as highly selective networks of pores and channels providing a high surface area. Physisorption is driven by forces acting between the hydrogen molecules and the surface of the adsorbent material.
Why is it important?
Physisorption presents a lightweight, safe and fully reversible route for storage and transport of hydrogen.
Characteristics
- Volumetric hydrogen density: ~40-50kg m3 demonstrated
- Gravimetric hydrogen density: varies widely, ~2-20% by weight demonstrated
- Storage conditions: Low temperatures (~-196°C)
Benefits
- Lightweight materials
- Release of hydrogen is endothermic, negating risk of ignition
- Hydrogen can be adsorbed and released quickly
- Fully reversible process
Limitations
- Requires low temperature or high pressure
- Weak interaction with H2 limits applicability
RD&D priorities
- Demonstrate tank prototypes that can operate at reduced by not cryogenic conditions
- Enhance the binding energy between the H2 molecules and adsorbents to increase hydrogen uptake
- Investigate the effects of dopants, catalysts, and substitution to improve hydrogen uptake
Known active organisations
- The Australian National University
- CSIRO
- Curtin University
- Griffith University
- Queensland University of Technology
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Technology Sydney
- The University of Western Australia