The Hydrogen required for the fuel cells for example is stored and transported in composite pressure vessels, the very lightweight so-called Type 4 pressure vessels. Storing Hydrogen at a pressure of up to 700 bar entails high safety requirements. According to EU regulations, hydrogen systems must be inspected at least every 48 months after they are put into operation. Pressure vessels of Type 4, consisting of a polymer liner and an outer carbon fiber structure, are the central subject of the project proposal. Their general operating stress can reach 70 MPa. Composite materials and structures as lightweight solutions definitely have advantages in terms of weight, corrosion, and long-term fatigue resistance. However, it is not yet possible to accurately determine or predict the fatigue life, especially for Type 4 pressure vessels. The wall thickness of Type 4 pressure vessels and the lack of contrast between the fiber and matrix materials also make it more difficult to use non-destructive testing to identify material defects and safety-relevant weak points.
In this project we will demonstrate new concepts for MEMS sensors to detect hydrogen, the integration of such sensors in Hydrogen storages and to show the feasibility in demonstrators.

• Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ha Duong Ngo (Projektleitung)

DFG