Magnesium-based hydrogen storage tanks: A review of research, development and simulation models

Hydrogen energy has been regarded as the ideal energy carrier to realize global renewable and sustainable development. However, achieving large-scale hydrogen storage is still challenging due to hydrogen's intrinsic properties of low density, flammability, and high diffusivity. Mg-based metal hydrides (MHs) are a series of potential materials to store hydrogen safely with high volumetric/gravimetric hydrogen storage density. Recently, hydrogen storage and transportation trailers and hydrogen-electric energy storage systems using Mg-based MHs have emerged as new solutions. Mg-based MHs are filled in the tank in powder form, which will result in poor heat and mass transfer characteristics of the MH bed. In addition, a large amount of heat involved during hydrogen sorption will lead to the non-uniform and fluctuating temperature and pressure in the solid-state hydrogen storage tank (HST). Thus, how to design a high-performance HST is still the key to the application of MHs. For a long time, many models have been proposed to predict the designed HST using simulation methods. However, it is difficult for researchers to identify a suitable and simplified model to design the HST. This work reviews from Mg-based MHs to HSTs, especially the numerical model of HSTs and thermal management strategies. A comprehensive workflow model is proposed for HST design and application. Then, some practical applications, as well as challenges and prospects for Mg-based HSTs are presented. This review will help to accelerate the design and application of HST, thereby actively support the development of hydrogen energy.