Experts Forum
GU Hu, JI Liqiang, DONG Jiarui, DUAN Yanan, HAN Wei
【Objective】The purpose of this review is to systematically examine the current state and challenges of solid-state hydrogen storage, with a focus on the interconnection between material dynamic responses and system integration optimization. It aims to bridge the gap between fundamental material properties and practical engineering applications, thereby providing a comprehensive framework to guide the development of efficient and commercially viable next-generation systems.
【Method】This study was conducted through a systematic literature review, synthesizing recent research advances across two interconnected domains. First, the thermodynamic and kinetic properties, cyclic stability, and dynamic responses of major solid-state hydrogen storage materials, such as metal hydrides and complex hydrides, were analyzed. Second, system-level integration and optimization approaches for hydrogen storage devices were investigated. This encompassed the analysis of heat exchanger design, temperature and pressure control strategies, various structural configurations, as well as safety protocols and techno-economic assessments. The methodology integrated theoretical models, such as the Van't Hoff equation and the shrinking core model, with numerical simulations including multi-physics coupling and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for safety analysis. Empirical data from representative case studies, including the Toyota Mirai and the NEDO project, were incorporated to establish a holistic “material-device-system” analysis framework.
【Result】The analysis indicates that the performance of solid-state hydrogen storage systems is dictated by a complex interplay between material properties and engineering design. Key findings include: (1) Material performance often involves inherent trade-offs, for example, between high hydrogen capacity and rapid reaction kinetics. Modification strategies, such as nanostructuring and catalytic doping, can enhance performance but may concurrently compromise long-term stability or increase cost. (2) System integration presents significant challenges in thermal management. The strongly exothermic/endothermic nature of hydrogenation/dehydrogenation necessitates highly efficient heat transfer designs, which typically utilize high-conductivity matrices, phase-change materials, and advanced heat exchangers to ensure reaction uniformity and system stability. (3) Safety and reliability remain critical, requiring multi-level protection systems, redundant design principles, and rigorous risk assessments to mitigate hazards such as hydrogen leakage. (4) Economic viability remains a major concern, with costs heavily influenced by premium materials, complex manufacturing processes, and sophisticated control systems. However, modular design and scaled-up production present viable pathways for cost reduction.
【Conclusion】Solid-state hydrogen storage technology represents a promising pathway for safe, high-density hydrogen storage, yet its advancement necessitates coordinated innovation across materials science and systems engineering. Future efforts should focus on developing low-cost, high-capacity materials with favorable thermodynamics and kinetics, concurrently advancing integrated system designs for efficient thermal management, robust safety, and improved economic competitiveness. A synergistic approach leveraging advanced characterization, multi-scale modeling, and intelligent control is crucial for overcoming existing bottlenecks and accelerating the commercialization of this technology for applications ranging from transportation to stationary energy storage.