Advanced X-ray nano-Tomography for Investigating Damage Mechanisms in Multilayer Polymer Films for Hydrogen Storage

This proposal aims to investigate damage mechanisms in multilayer polymer films for hydrogen storage using synchrotron X-ray nano-tomography. These films must balance high fracture resistance with excellent gas barrier properties. Preliminary studies reveal that transverse cracking and inter-ply cavitation significantly influence energy dissipation and failure. Post-mortem nano-tomography will characterize damage across multiple scales, from nanometer-sized cavities to millimeter-scale crack propagation. By leveraging the high spatial resolution of ESRF’s beamlines, we aim to correlate microstructural features with damage evolution, particularly under mechanical loading and rapid gas decompression. These insights will enhance failure prediction and material optimization, contributing to the design of next-generation, safer hydrogen storage solutions.