A Framework for Predicting the Pressure Evolutions of Vented Hydrogen Explosions

Jintao Xu, Xiangfeng Chen, Weihong Li*, Wei Gao*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapters, Conference Papers, Creative and Literary WorksRGC 32 - Refereed conference paper (with host publication)peer-review

Abstract

Hydrogen’s potential as a clean energy source is accompanied by significant safety concerns due to its hazardous characteristics, including low ignition energy, rapid diffusion and wide range of flammability limits. Explosion venting is a direct and effective safety measure designed to reduce explosion pressure. The core of venting lies in designing vent area (Av), with static activation pressure (Pstat), reduced explosion pressure (Pred), and gas properties as key parameters. The growing application of hydrogen in storage and fuel systems has intensified the need for advanced venting designs, particularly at elevated Pstat. However, previous studies have either neglected the pressure evolution curve or overlooked the impact of activation pressure, both of which are crucial for analyzing multi-peak behaviors, calculating total impulse, and guiding safety protection strategies.

This study developed a physics-based framework for predicting pressure evolution in vented hydrogen explosions. Extensive datasets revealed the effects of Pstat and laminar burning velocity (SL,0) on dynamic burst pressures (Pburst). Assuming isentropic gas expansion and compression, the framework is based on laminar combustion theory and the dynamic response law of venting. It encompasses the entire explosion process, including confined explosion, unburned gas venting, mixed gas venting, and burned gas venting. It enables the simulation of transient pressure evolution and flame front propagation while considering effects of activation pressure and coupled inerting.

The framework was validated through scenarios involving hydrogen-air explosions and coupled inerting, demonstrating accurate predictions across a wide range of Pred, with an average error of ±10.9%. Due to its low computational cost, the framework serves as a practical tool for assessing explosion hazards under various geometries, fuels, and protective strategies, offering substantial potential to enhance safety in hydrogen systems.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationICCEU16 Conference Proceedings
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2025
Event16th International Conference on Combustion and Energy Utilization , ICCEU 16 - City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
Duration: 9 Feb 202513 Feb 2025
https://www.icceu16.com/

Conference

Conference16th International Conference on Combustion and Energy Utilization , ICCEU 16
Abbreviated titleICCEU 16
PlaceChina
CityHong Kong
Period9/02/2513/02/25
Internet address

Bibliographical note

Information for this record is supplemented by the author(s) concerned

Cite this