| 摘要 |
A lightweight thermochemical hydrogen generator comprises a metallic hydride e.g. magnesium hydride matrix and an ionic hydride e.g. lithium hydride matrix disposed coaxially within a first compartment of a container so as to form a passageway therebetween which communicates with a hydrogen-collecting plenum. Water, pressurized by inert gas, is disposed within another compartment of the container and is supplied to the ionic hydride matrix through a normally closed valve and a water distribution manifold pipe having a plurality of apertures uniformly distributed therein. Upon opening the valve, the resulting ionic hydride/water reaction liberates hydrogen and produces heat which decomposes the metallic hydride. The proportions of the hydrides and the water are selected to control the temperature within the container to ensure decomposition of the metallic hydride, to optimize hydrogen generation and heat dissipation, and to minimize weight and volume. The generator may be employed for the high altitude inflation of a balloon launched from a rocket, as a source of fuel for combustion engines, and as a safe, lightweight hydrogen transportation system. <IMAGE> |
