Innovative Materials and Techniques for Enhancing Hydrogen Storage: A Comprehensive Review of Damage Detection and Preventive Strategies

Abstract

Hydrogen is a promising alternative energy resource, but an improvement of secure and efficient storage solutions must be developed for its increased use. This review will investigate efforts to improve the storage of hydrogen using Solid-State methods such as Activated Carbon, Carbon Nanotubes, Metal-Organic Framework, and Metal Hydrides in comparison with traditional liquid and gaseous storage methods. Solid-state methods rely on the temporary trapping or chemical bonding of the hydrogen atoms and molecules to reduce the reactivity and explosivity of the hydrogen and improve safety and equipment sustainability. To support the research into storage methods and improve the industrial infostructure for an increase in hydrogen use, several methods for detecting hydrogen are explored, including Acoustic Emissions Testing, Scanning Kelvin Probe Testing, and Digital Image Correlation. Lastly, various preventative measures used to improve the performance of material used in Hydrogen environments are researched, including Laser Shock Peening, Hydrogen Recombination Coatings, Hydrogen Diffusion Barriers, Hydrogen Getter Coating, and Microstructure Testing.