A new 3D-printed composite material could reshape hydrogen storage technology by making it safer and more efficient
Hydrogen may be emerging as a leading candidate for the clean energy transition but storing it safely and efficiently remains a major engineering challenge. A team of researchers from Khalifa University and King Fahd University has now developed a new graphene-enhanced polymer composite that could significantly improve the performance of hydrogen storage tanks.听
Mohammed Alkrunz, Dr. Chanaka Sandurwan, Dr. Shanavas Shajahan, Basel Al Tawil, Dr. Naga Venkateswara Rao Nulakani, Dr. Dalaver Anjum, Dr. Andreas Schiffer, Prof. Yahya Zweiri and Dr. Yarjan Abdul Samad, with Mohd Yusuf Khan, focused on a nylon material already known for its promising gas barrier properties. By integrating small amounts of graphene and 3D-printing the resulting material with a custom spiral pattern, they created a composite that resists hydrogen permeation up to 40 percent better than conventional alternatives. The team published their results in 听
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鈥淥ur graphene-enhanced polymer not only blocks hydrogen more effectively than traditional materials, but it also improves strength, heat resistance, and safety all in one scalable, 3D-printable solution.鈥�
鈥� Assistant Professor Yarjan Abdul Samad, Khalifa University.
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The key to the improved material lies in how graphene alters the internal structure of the polymer. The team showed that graphene flakes prevent the nylon chains from coiling, instead promoting linear, orderly arrangements. This improved alignment enhances the crystalline regions of the polymer and creates more complex paths for the hydrogen molecules, effectively blocking their diffusion.听
Mechanical testing confirmed that the new material is not only better at containing gas but also stronger and more heat-resistant, with the degradation temperature rising by 40C. The material also became conductive enough to safely dissipate static charge, which is a critical safety concern in hydrogen systems.听
The team鈥檚 design uses a unique 3D-printing strategy to disperse graphene uniformly and maximize its effects but also offers a scalable manufacturing route for practical applications. By combining structural reinforcement, thermal durability, and low hydrogen permeability, this composite could become a core material in next-generation hydrogen storage systems.听
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
