Films, Foams & Monoliths: Novel Forming Methods for Hydrogen Adsorbent Composites

Abstract

Composite monoliths between a PIM-1 matrix and commercially available activated carbon, AX21, particulate filler have been freeze cast to yield a series of 3D macrostructures exhibiting enhanced BET surface areas. An isotropic freeze casting methodology was developed to produce these monoliths from chloroform solutions, attaining both a practical size and geometry towards useful applications as a hydrogen store. The inclusion of 20% wt. AX21, was found to improve the BET surface areas, beyond that of the pristine PIM-1, from 762 to 849 m3 g-1, with scope to increase this further. Therefore, here reports the first clear cut evidence of a PIM-1 monolith of a reasonable stiffness (0.18 – 0.26 GPa) and of sufficient compressive strength (5.5 - 6.7 MPa) for safe integration with state-of-the-art Type IV hydrogen compression vessels.

Date of Award	2019
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Sponsors	Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Supervisor	Tim Mays (Supervisor), Chris Bowen (Supervisor) & Andrew Burrows (Supervisor)