Hydrogen fuel presents a promising route towards a carbon-free energy source for vehicles – but the technology still faces challenges relating to storage. The paper „Exploring Steel Alloys for Hydrogen Storage Technology“ studies the capabilities and limitations of specialised steel alloys for heavily stressed components in high-pressure hydrogen storage systems.

Using a combination of simulations and analytical techniques, the team aims to provide a detailed picture of how the atomic-scale structures of these materials relate to their brittleness when exposed to hydrogen. Their discoveries could eventually lead to the development of new materials, which can be used as high-performing components in hydrogen storage systems.