Chrisale NGUELOHEU YEDA : "Study and modeling of an intermetallic powder bed behavior for solid state hydrogen storage"

Abstract : The solid-state hydrogen storage using intermetallic alloy powders, capable of absorbing and releasing hydrogen, causes volume variations in the medium, inducing stresses on the reservoir walls, which may lead to damage. This thesis develops sizing tools to design an optimal reservoir, based on the characterization of the mechanical behavior of the hydride powder bed and the study of its flowability. The flowability study allows for the characterization of particle displacement, while the matrix compression study helps characterize the transmission of stresses and mechanical properties. Experimental data are used to identify the parameters of digital twins developed using YADE, a numerical tool based on the discrete element method (DEM). It is then possible to simulate the powder bed’s breathing and evaluate the stresses on the reservoir wall. The simulations show a polynomial distribution of stresses, with a concentration in the lower part of the reservoir. Two stress components, radial and tangential, are identified, subjecting the reservoir to tension. Reducing particle size or increasing the filling rate amplifies the stresses while maintaining the polynomial profile. 

Jury Composition :

David CHAPELLE, Professeur des universités, Université Marie et Louis Pasteur,  PhD Director

Olivier GILLIA, Ingénieur, CEA LITEN, Reporter

Thierry GROSDIDIER,  Professeur,  Université de Lorraine,  Reporter

Patricia DE RANGO,  Directrice de recherche, Institut Néel, Reviewer

Anne MAYNADIER,  Maîtresse de conférences, Université Marie et Louis Pasteur, PhD Co-director

Localization : salle Amphithéâtre Jean-Jacques Gagnepain, Institut FEMTO-ST 15B, avenue des Montboucons 25000 BESANCON