Non-linear Time-history Analysis of Liquified Hydrogen Tank by Site-specific Earthquake

Seismic Response Analysis and Fracture Mechanics Evaluation of Flat-Bottom Cylindrical Liquefied Hydrogen Tanks (Report 1)

Abstract

Flat-bottom cylindrical tanks are anticipated for future large-scale liquefied hydrogen (LH2) storage. However, since no such tanks exist for LH2 service, confirming their response during major earthquakes is critical. This study investigates the seismic behavior of a 50,000m³ LH2 tank using 3D nonlinear time-history response analyses, considering elasto-plastic material effects and lateral sliding at the base. Two ground motions were evaluated: a site-specific wave and a more severe wave fitted to the KHKS Level 2 design spectrum.
The site-specific motion resulted in a small response due to the soil's non-linear dampening. In contrast, the spectrum-fitted wave induced a significantly larger response, causing substantial lateral sliding and high stress concentration at the corner joint of the annular plate. While stresses in the main shell remained low, the corner joint is identified as a critical area, highlighting the need for detailed fracture evaluation.