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Composite materials are increasingly utilized in manufacturing of cryogenic hydrogen storage tanks due to their high strength-to-weight ratios, making them attractive for lightweight and efficient energy storage solutions. However, ensuring the long-term integrity of these tanks is crucial for safe and reliable hydrogen storage and transportation. Hydrogen storage tanks are subjected to complex loading conditions, including internal pressure and low temperatures, which may lead to the formation of potential leakage paths within composite materials, prior to macroscopic failure of the tank.
In the present work, the critical issue of different types of damage evolution that could potentially result to leakage or catastrophic failure of fibre-reinforced composite materials subjected to the complex and demanding loading conditions inherent in cryogenic hydrogen storage environments is investigated. The damage evolution is examined by the development of detailed numerical models using Finite Element Analysis. The developed models incorporate a Progressive Damage Modelling approach that is used to predict the failure modes that appear within the composite material of the tank. A key focus of this study is to examine the evolution of matrix cracking and their coalescence as a primary mechanism for leakage path formation. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of the damage progression and its potential impact on the structural integrity of the composite material.
The results produced by the developed numerical models are compared with respective experimental data obtained from appropriate tests. This comparison allows for the validation of the developed models, showcasing the predictive capabilities of the methodology. The generated insights enable the optimization of the design of hydrogen storage composite pressure vessels, providing a robust framework for assessing the structural integrity of composite materials in demanding cryogenic environments, paving the way for the safe and widespread adoption of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy carrier.
Acknowledgements: This research work was supported by the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking pprogramme “HydrogEn Lightweight & Innovative tank for zerO-emisSion aircraft”, with the acronym H2ELIOS. However, the views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
