The activities of his secondment fell within two work packages, WP1 and WP4. Within the WP1 of the project framework, the activities included the experimental testing of multicomponent AB2 -based hydrides, TiZr(Mn,Fe,Cr,Ni)2, for hydrogen compression applications. Using a high-pressure manual Sievert-type apparatus, these materials' isotherms (pressure-composition-temperature curves) were determined notwithstanding the various difficulties encountered. Additionally, using computer simulations (molecular dynamics), the properties of these AB2 based hydrides were investigated in detail. The preparation of a manuscript describing the results of the investigation is ongoing and expected to be published in a reputable international journal.
Within the activities related to WP4 (systems integration), it was shown that the balance of plant (BoP) in forklift power modules needed optimization. One of the aspects regarded during these activities was implementing an internal heat recovery system that could enable the reutilization of metal hydride heat of reactions evolved during H2 refueling stages, thereby removing circulating water pumps or air compressors. In this context, phase change materials (PCM) have emerged as promising candidates for heat supply and recovery to metal hydride systems. We propose and implement a metal hydride reactor (MHR)coupled with a PCM system for Forklift power modules. In the first step, we have published results on the multi-objective optimization of MHR-PCM system, where the effects of PCM thermal properties on the hydrogen sorption times were investigated. Future work will analyze the dynamic performance of such a system in providing a steady hydrogen flow rate to installed fuel cells during the forklift operation.
