Methods for measuring the effective thermal conductivity of metal hydride beds: A review. (28th February 2020) - Zhao, Wenli
Abstract: The effective thermal conductivity of metal hydride beds is a crucial parameter for metal hydride reactor design. In this review, methods and principles for the measurement of the effective thermal conductivity of metal hydride beds are discussed, including steady-state techniques (the radial heat flow, comparative cut bar, guarded heat flow meter, and guarded hot plate methods) and transient techniques (the hot-wire, thermal probe, transient plane source, and laser flash methods). Reports of effective thermal conductivity measurements for characterizing metal hydride beds have been reviewed, including the measurement methods, material composition, measurement results, temperature, and gas pressure. The advantages, disadvantages, and applications of each measurement method have been presented, and an assessment regarding different techniques of measurement has been conducted. Laser flash and transient plane source are found to be the most frequently used methods, and have been increasingly applied in recent years. Finally, a brief discussion of recommended future development of effective thermal conductivity measurement is presented. Highlights: Methods of measuring effective thermal conductivity of metal hydride beds were reviewed. Details of effective thermal conductivity tests for metal hydride beds were discussed. Advantages, disadvantages and applications of each measurement method were presented. A brief discussion about the future development of measurement methods was conducted.