Physisorption-based hydrogen compressor for liquid hydrogen-integrated refueling stations: A comparison between MOF-5 and MSC-30

The transition to hydrogen as a clean energy vector necessitates the development of compact, efficient, and scalable hydrogen refueling station (HRS) infrastructure, especially for space-constrained urban environments. Liquid hydrogen (LH₂)-based HRS provides an attractive solution due to its high volumetric density. However, conventional mechanical compressors are hindered by high maintenance costs, slow compression rates, and operational inefficiencies, posing challenges to rapid refueling demands. In this study, we explore a physisorption-based hydrogen compressor employing MOF-5 and MSC-30, commercially available porous materials optimized for cryogenic operation. Through comprehensive experimental measurements at 77, 111.15, 170, and 231.15 K, complemented by van't Hoff thermodynamic modeling, we established a hybrid framework to evaluate the system's compression performance. Our analysis defines both the theoretical upper limit (crystal density) and practical lower limit (tap density) of material performance, providing valuable guidelines for system design. In particular, MOF-5 is projected, based on crystal density and thermodynamic modeling, to achieve 900 bar hydrogen compression at 170 and 231.15 K, with an estimated usable capacity of 4–5 g/L. Compared to conventional compressors, the physisorption-based system offers efficient pressure recovery, enhanced operational safety, and reduced maintenance requirements. While direct high-pressure, cryogenic experimental validation is currently limited by equipment availability, our study lays a solid foundation for future implementation. Overall, this work advances the feasibility of physisorption-based hydrogen compressors as cost-effective, scalable, and energy-efficient solutions for LH₂-integrated HRS.