Project

The overall aim of the project is to contribute to the safety assessment of large-scale LH2 storage and transportation. To this end, it is required to perform simulation of hydrogen distribution inside complex geometry following potential hydrogen leakages. The corresponding numerical codes need to be adapted to the specific boundary conditions and new models have to be implemented with regard to recombiner operation and combustion criteria at low temperatures.

Experimental determination of fundamental safety-related parameters of hydrogen combustion not yet available for low temperatures

Combustion of hydrogen and the phenomena behind the initiation of an explosion have been the subject of studies for several decades. While there is numerous data about hydrogen explosion at standard conditions of pressure and temperature, little is known about the explosion propensity of hydrogen at cryogenic conditions, which are responsible for a large change in the combustion properties. Among others, three fundamental combustion parameters – the flammability domain, the laminar flame speed, the expansion ratio – will be determined at temperatures between -50°C and -100°C.

Development and qualification of novel catalysts for catalytic recombiners to prevent the formation of flammable gas mixtures in case of LH2 leakages

Dilution and ventilation of hydrogen releases in closed or semi-confined environments are the most efficient means to avoid the formation of flammable mixtures. However, in specific low-ventilated areas, e.g. on a maritime hydrogen carrier, catalytic recombiners can provide a relevant hydrogen sink. While recombiners have been qualified for elevated temperatures and pressures, no knowledge exists on the operational performance at low temperatures. The specific objective is to develop and qualify a novel catalyst to operate under the typical conditions of LH2 applications.

Application of advanced numerical tools to study scenarios of potential hydrogen leakages and assessing the efficiency of mitigation measures

Although hydrogen leakages and formation of flammable gas mixtures has been studied since a long time, the specific conditions of LH2 applications, such as low temperature, specifics of the geometry, natural ventilation, still represent challenging boundary conditions. The specific objective is to apply well-proved codes on the simulation of hydrogen distribution and mixing to identify potential modelling gaps, study potential accident scenarios and provide information on potential boundary conditions and locations for additional mitigation measures.