Method and apparatus for hydrogen storage and retrieval
US6591617B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 1, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jul 15, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 1, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S977/948
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method is provided for delivering gaseous hydrogen to end users, the hydrogen being delivered in reusable storage tanks containing a plurality of carbon nanotubes. Liquid hydrogen is introduced into the tank, and the nanotubes absorb the hydrogen. The tanks are then warmed to normal temperatures and distributed to end users. The tanks are connected to the end-user system and are preferably installed within an air-tight enclosure, which may have an inert atmosphere. Alternatively, an inerting system monitors the air within the enclosure for free hydrogen and can release an inerting gas if free hydrogen is detected. The hydrogen is selectively released by heating the storage tank or by injecting a catalyst into the tank. When the usable hydrogen is depleted, the tank is retrieved from the end user for refurbishment and refilling.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.