The effect of microwave fields on the interaction of hydrogen with hydride forming materials

Bell, Robert (2015). The effect of microwave fields on the interaction of hydrogen with hydride forming materials. University of Birmingham. Eng.D.

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Abstract

The investigation of the interaction and kinetics of hydride forming materials under high frequency electromagnetic fields was undertaken in a joint research project between the University of Birmingham and C-Tech Innovation ltd.

The improvement in the reaction rate of materials with hydrogen is a key step in the development of cost effective hydrogen storage technologies to make an effective fuel cell system for energy storage applications. The use of microwaves and radio frequency fields has been widely reported to improve reaction kinetics in a number of reactions and the evidence for improved diffusion rates suggests that electromagnetic fields could impact on this.

C-Tech Innovation Ltd has a long track record in the development of microwave and radio frequency technologies and in the processing of materials using these technologies. The development of specific test and measurement equipment was a key objective of the project and has resulted in the development of a temperature controlled microwave /RF hybrid system to allow measurement of material sorption characteristics at controlled temperatures and pressures. Specifically the equipment allows the exposure of materials to high frequency electromagnetic fields at temperatures up to 800°C, under hydrogen or mixed gas atmospheres of 18 bar and with up to 2.5kW of applied electromagnetic radiation at 2 frequencies.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Eng.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Eng.D.

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