Development Of A Monolithic, Thermoplastic Composite Type IV Pressure Vessel For Hydrogen Storage

A three-year, multi-partner research program to develop a monolithic, thermoplastic-composite, Type IV pressure vessels for high-pressure (70 MPa) on-board storage of hydrogen gas for fuel-cell powered vehicles has successfully achieved their primary objectives.

The study which aimed to develop both vessel and manufacturing process was part funded by the Technology Strategy Board and was headed up by EPL Composite Solutions Ltd, other members of the consortium were Crompton Mouldings Ltd who manufactured the rotationally moulded liner, CTG Ltd, Delta Motorsport Ltd, Celanese Corporation who supplied the thermoplastic raw materials, Element Materials Technology Hitchin who conducted the rigorous testing of the materials and vessels, and Oxford Brookes University who produced the data analysis and end of life recycling analysis.

Phase 1 of the programme produced hydrogen storage cylinders that are lightweight, low-cost, and durable and address issues with gas permeability, embrittlement, and vessel recyclability afflicting current thermoset-reinforced and metal vessels.

These parts have passed a battery of challenging industry tests. Phase 2 due to start in June 2014 will finalize turnkey equipment and work cells allowing the thermoplastic vessel to be used as a drop-in solution on current cylinder production lines.