Techno-economic Assessment of Type IV Hydrogen Gas Storage Tanks

Abstract

Techno-economic Assessment of Type IV Hydrogen Gas Storage Tanks Hyunkyu Shin Department of Mechanical Convergence Engineering Graduate School of Hanyang University. This study aims to assess the current technology and cost-effectiveness of hydrogen gas storage tanks and investigate the effects of applying new technology to Type IV hydrogen gas storage tanks. Hydrogen gas storage tanks have traditionally been manufactured using the wet winding method, which involves impregnating carbon fibers into epoxy resin and filament winding on a liner. However, this method has limitations due to resin impregnation and winding speeds, resulting in restricted quality and competitiveness. To overcome these limitations, this study examined the technology and cost-effectiveness of Type IV hydrogen gas storage tanks utilizing innovative techniques such as dry winding using towpreg and an automated fiber placement process using environmentally friendly thermoplastic tape. The research categorized the analysis into Type IV-a, using the traditional wet winding method, and Types IV-b and IV-c, incorporating new advanced technologies. Additionally, it conducted technical and economic analyses on four types of hydrogen gas storage tanks, including Type III, considering passenger 52-liter and heavy-duty truck-sized 175-liter tanks. The study explored 35 input variables to investigate the required technology and costs for annual production volumes ranging from 3K to 500K units. The findings highlighted the substantial impact of carbon fibers and intermediates on overall costs. Type IV-b, employing dry winding, showed cost competitiveness by considering towpreg cost, while Type IV-c demonstrated its competitive edge. The future outlook suggests the prospective adoption of Type IV-c, employing recyclable thermoplastic tape, in the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the study conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the carbon dioxide emissions during the production process of hydrogen tanks based on types and capacities. It revealed that Type IV-b and IV-c, developed with new technologies, exhibit 10-20% lower greenhouse gas emissions than the conventional wet winding method. This indicates the environmental advantages of innovative technologies and their anticipated widespread adoption in the future. The study significantly utilized the 'Hycost' modeling tool to conduct technology-cost- benefit modeling of hydrogen gas storage tanks tailored to various purposes, identifying cost elements concerning production volumes, setting target material costs, and proposing strategies for adopting new technologies. The accuracy of the research was confirmed by comparing actual production costs and analyzing them against the target prices outlined by the U.S. DoE and the European Union, demonstrating an accuracy within 4%. In conclusion, while the initial investment and intermediate costs for dry winding and thermoplastic tape usage are high, achieving target costs could lead to environmental superiority and anticipated industrial applications. In summary, by evaluating the technology and cost-effectiveness of hydrogen gas storage tanks, this study aims to identify crucial factors essential for hydrogen gas storage tanks manufacturing, providing valuable tools for introducing new technologies and conducting cost analyses necessary for the industry's advancement and commercialization. This research intends to comprehend the pivotal influence of hydrogen tank manufacturing within the industry and explore innovative strategies to enhance technological advancements and cost efficiency. It is anticipated to play a significant role in promoting the development of hydrogen technology and the growth of the industry. Furthermore, the study's outcomes are expected to be beneficial to stakeholders involved in hydrogen gas storage tanks manufacturing and industry, serving as an essential element for the sustainability and economic progress of the hydrogen industry.