French engineering and research organization Cetim has achieved a major milestone in high-pressure hydrogen storage, successfully validating a thermoplastic composite tank capable of withstanding pressures of up to 1,675 bar under the ARHYSTOTE project.

The demonstration involved a 62-litre hydrogen storage vessel with a total system weight of 43 kilograms. The performance milestone highlights the potential of thermoplastic composite technologies to support next-generation hydrogen storage systems requiring high pressure capability alongside reduced weight and improved sustainability.

According to Cetim, the tank achieved a gravimetric efficiency of 5.7%, representing the proportion of stored hydrogen relative to total system mass. Engineering studies conducted within the project indicate that this figure could increase to approximately 6.8% for a larger 120-litre tank configuration, further improving hydrogen storage efficiency.

The project explored the use of advanced thermoplastic composite materials as an alternative to conventional thermoset-based pressure vessel designs. Cetim noted that the selected thermoplastic material offers enhanced resistance to damage and impact, while supporting more predictable failure behavior and potentially longer operational service life.

Researchers also identified opportunities to develop new tank architectures that combine multiple manufacturing technologies, enabling reductions in composite weight while supporting higher production throughput for future industrial-scale manufacturing.

Another advantage highlighted by the project is the ability to weld composite structures directly to the tank liner. This approach could simplify manufacturing and maintenance operations by reducing decontamination requirements during processing and service.

In addition, the thermoplastic-based design provides a pathway toward end-of-life recycling, addressing a growing industry focus on circularity and sustainability in composite pressure vessel applications.

The achievement demonstrates the growing potential of thermoplastic composites in hydrogen storage systems, where lightweight construction, manufacturing efficiency, durability, and recyclability are becoming increasingly important factors for transportation and energy infrastructure applications.

Source: Cetim Engineering | News