Multi-capability Platform for Testing Materials in High Temperature and Pressure Hydrogen

Invention Reference Number

202405657

This new test platform addresses the critical gap in the infrastructure for evaluating materials in high-pressure, high-temperature hydrogen environments. It safely combines mechanical testing (tensile, creep, fatigue) and environmental testing under extreme hydrogen pre- and post-combustion atmospheres.

Description

Existing facilities can evaluate materials under low-temperature, high-pressure hydrogen conditions, but there is no current infrastructure capable of testing materials under both high pressure and high temperature. This invention offers the ability to test structural materials in environments with temperatures up to 1200°C and pressures up to 500 bar in flowing hydrogen and hydrogen combustion (e.g., high water vapor contents) atmospheres. It allows for the testing of materials in pure hydrogen or mixed gas environments, providing data critical for industries moving toward hydrogen fuel applications, such as hydrogen-fueled gas turbines and combustion engines. The system also enhances safety by, eliminating the need for gas bottles.

Benefits

Safer operation: No gas bottles are required; reducing risk.
Lower investment and operational costs: Simple setup with lower costs than conventional testing methods.
Broad testing capability: Temperatures up to 1200°C and pressures up to 500 bar for both mechanical and environmental testing.

Applications and Industries

Automotive industry: Testing materials for hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Power generation: Evaluating materials in hydrogen turbines and combustion systems.
Plant operators: Assessing the safety and compatibility of materials exposed to hydrogen in industrial settings.