Performance simulation and experimental confirmation of a mini-channel metal hydrides reactor

A theoretical and experimental study about a proposed mini-channel reactor was carried out to enhance heat transfer performance for metal hydrides applications, such as hydrogen storage, hydrogen compression and chemical heat pumps. The configuration of the reactor and working principles are described in detail. The predicted hydride bed temperature profiles in the reactor are compared with the experimental data from the performance test system, and a reasonable agreement is observed. The simulation of the hydrogen adsorption and desorption processes in a mini-channel reactor packed with LaNi₅ is conducted, and the influences of some important parameters, e.g. the bed thickness, the number of the mini-channels, hydrogen supply and discharge pressure are analyzed. Comparing with the traditional reactors, such as tubular reactor and disc reactor, the mini-channel reactor has some obvious advantages, therefore can be recommended for applications.