In this work an integrate system for generation, storage and transport of hydrogen using chemical hydride has been studied. In particular, the sodium borohydride (NaBH4) has been considered, representing a good energetic carrier with a very high storage density due to its high hydrogen contains. In this case, the hydrogen is released as main product of the reaction of NaBH4 with water, while the by-product is sodium metaborate (NaBO2). In the first part of the work, the simulation of the packed bed reactor has been developed, using MATLAB SIMULINK. To optimise the operating conditions, the influence of some variables has been analysed, such as NaBH4 concentration, reactor length, velocity of the flow, different types of catalyser, etc.. In parallel to the theoretical activity, an experimental test rig has been designed with the aim of validating the code results and to support the choice of materials and operating parameters. The test rig is under development in the frame of a national Project sponsored by Regione Veneto and Ministry of Environment, and in collaboration with Enel Research Centre-Pisa.
