Selection, synthesis and characterisation of metal alloys for hydrogen storage and related applications

Lead Research Organisation: University of Nottingham
Department Name: Faculty of Engineering

Abstract

Decades of research have been devoted to storing hydrogen more economically and efficiently, and solid-state stores based on hydrides of metal alloys, such as intermetallics and high-entropy alloys, are one of the most extensively studied materials. A wide range of exciting potential applications are available, from hydrogen storage for transportation, stationary applications for refuelling and energy storage, to hydrogen compressors and thermal energy storage. Their practical applicability varies widely as a function of their thermodynamic properties which, when combined with other factors such as sustainability, cost, kinetics, capacity, has led to thousands of metal hydrides being investigated experimentally. Working together with an in-house modelling group, who will run computational high-throughput screening of materials databases and identify new candidate metal alloys with favourable properties for the aforementioned applications, this project aims to experimentally synthesize novel metal alloys shortlisted by computational screening, and characterise their structures and hydrogen absorption/desorption properties. This project forms part of our ongoing collaboration with Sandia National Laboratories on a joint experimental/computational project to identify new metal alloys for hydrogen storage and related applications. The project will also expose the candidate to LCM Ltd a leading manufacturer and supplier of complex metal alloys.

Planned Impact

The RI self-assessment of an individual's research projects will mean that the cohort have a high degree of understanding of the potential beneficial impact from their research on the economy, society and the environment. This then places the cohort as the best ambassadors for the CDT, hence most pathways to impact are through the students, facilitated by the CDT.

Industrial impact of this CDT is in working closely together with key industry players across the hydrogen sector, including through co-supervision, mentoring of doctoral students and industry involvement in CDT events. Our industrial stakeholders include those working on hydrogen production (ITM Power, Hydrogen Green Power, Pure Energy) and distribution (Northern Gas, Cadent), storage (Luxfer, Haydale, Far UK), safety (HSL, Shell, ITM Power), low carbon transport (Ulemco, Arcola Energy), heat and power (Bosch, Northern Gas).

Policy impact of the CDT research and other activities will occur through cohort interactions with local authorities (Nottingham City Council) and LEPs (LLEP, D2N2) through the CDT workshops and conference. A CDT in Parliament day will be facilitated by UKHFCA (who have experience in lobbying the government on behalf of their members) and enable the cohort to visit the Parliamentary Office for Science and Technology (POST), BEIS and to meet with local MPs. Through understanding the importance of evidence gathering by Government Departments and the role this has in informing policy, the cohort will be encouraged to take the initiative in submitting evidence to any relevant requests for evidence from POST.

Public impact will be achieved through developing knowledge-supported interest of public in renewable energy in particular the role of hydrogen systems and infrastructure. Special attention will be paid to demonstration of safety solutions to prove that hydrogen is not more or less dangerous compared to other fuels when it is dealt with professionally and systems are engineered properly. The public, who are ultimate beneficiaries of hydrogen technologies, will be engaged through different communication channels and the CDT activities to be aware of our work. We will communicate important conclusions of the CDT research at regional, national, and international events as appropriate.

Socio-economic impact. There are significant socio-economic opportunities, including employment, for hydrogen technologies as the UK moves to low carbon transport, heat and power supply. For the UK to have the opportunity to take an international lead in hydrogen sector we need future innovation leaders. The CDT supported by partners we will create conditions for and exploit the opportunities to maximise socio-economic impact.

Students will be expected in years 3 and 4 to undertake a research visit to an industry partner and/or to undertake a knowledge transfer secondment. It is expected these visits (supported by the CDT) will be a significant benefit to the student's research project through access to industry expertise, exploring the potential impact of their research and will also be a valuable networking experience.

Publications

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Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/S023909/1 01/04/2019 30/09/2031
2445525 Studentship EP/S023909/1 01/10/2020 30/09/2024 Alexander John McGrath