Hydrogen storage unit containing metal hydride includes system of fluid-filled tubes transferring heat reversibly between hydride and transition region

摘要

Conductive tubes (14) in thermal contact with the storage medium (11) are filled with a fluid thermal medium (15). The tubes are partially (16) in contact with the storage medium, and partially (17) in contact with a transition region (18) for extraction and supply of heat (13). Preferred Features: The tubes include a capillary structure on their inner surfaces (19). The part of the tubing contacting the hydride, extends over its full length. Over the contacting region the tubes are in the outer- and the inner- and the central region (20) of the hydride. Each tube is double-walled, the thermal fluid being contained in the closed space between the walls. The tubular element surrounds the storage medium, where thermal contact is made. In the transition region, the tubes are in thermal contact with a structure (26) increasing surface area. Area-increasing structures are also connected to the tube sections in contact with the hydride.