Numerical analysis of vapor dispersion from compressed hydrogen (H2) storage vessels

Abstract

The rising demand for hydrogen fuel, driven by the emergence of fuel cell electric vehicles, underscores the need to optimize refueling station efficiency and affordability while prioritizing safety and performance. Compressed gas hydrogen storage emerges as a practical solution however safety across production, storage, and distribution is paramount for broader acceptance of hydrogen technologies. Any incidents could undermine public trust, emphasizing the importance of mitigating risks such as hydrogen leakage. This study investigates hydrogen dispersion and conducts consequence analyses for potential hazards, considering stability, ambient temperature, wind speed, and process parameters like vessel temperature, pressure, and leakage diameter. It assesses various scenarios, including high-pressure storage vessels and generic refueling station layouts, by employing integral models of ALOHA, PHAST and HyRAM. Findings showed that process parameters significantly influence hazard severity, with leakage diameter having a notable impact. Common safety vulnerabilities in fuel cell vehicles and refueling stations are highlighted, emphasizing adherence to international regulations and standards for enhanced safety protocols.