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Explosion dynamics and safety implications of hydrogen–air mixtures in complex underground structures

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  • Li, Ranran
  • Xiu, Zihao
  • Li, Mingzhi
  • Liu, Zhenyi
  • Liu, Qiqi
  • Hao, Bin

Abstract

Hydrogen poses a potential explosion risk in underground storage and transportation systems, while the influence of complex geometrical configurations on explosion dynamics remains insufficiently understood. This study employs large-eddy simulation (LES) to investigate the explosion characteristics of hydrogen–air mixtures in four representative spatial configurations: linear, L-shaped, n-shaped, and Z-shaped channels. The results show that the flame propagation velocity and overpressure in the L-shaped, n-shaped, and Z-shaped structures exhibit a distinct double-peak pattern. The first peak is dominated by the early-stage flame self-acceleration, whereas the second peak is strongly influenced by locally intensified turbulence induced by geometric turning regions. The maximum overpressure and flame speed follow the order Z-shaped > n-shaped > L-shaped > linear. Among them, the Z-shaped configuration generates the strongest corner-induced vortical structures, producing a peak Karlovitz number of 30.32 and elevating the maximum overpressure and flame speed to 116.39 kPa and 331.21 m/s, respectively (compared with only 38.98 kPa and 103.09 m/s in the linear configuration). The findings clearly demonstrate that enhanced flame wrinkling and elevated local reaction rates—both governed by corner-generated vortices—constitute the primary mechanism responsible for intensified pressure buildup in complex geometries. These insights provide essential guidance for explosion-resistant design and risk assessment in underground structures.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Ranran & Xiu, Zihao & Li, Mingzhi & Liu, Zhenyi & Liu, Qiqi & Hao, Bin, 2026. "Explosion dynamics and safety implications of hydrogen–air mixtures in complex underground structures," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 342(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:342:y:2026:i:c:s0360544225053071
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139665
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    References listed on IDEAS

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