Cryogenic Thermal Properties of Mineral Fiber Insulation: Efficiency in Low-Temperature Storage Systems

Hydrogen is emerging as a crucial energy carrier, yet effective insulation for liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage remains a significant challenge. This study focuses on evaluating the thermal properties of mineral fiber insulation at cryogenic temperatures, utilizing the guarded hot plate method to determine thermal conductivity values between 223 K (−150 °C) and 573 K (300 °C). The measured effective thermal conductivities ranged from 0.0147 to 0.2113 W/mK, varying with temperature. Notably, while high-density materials can be accurately modeled using linear approximations, low-density materials exhibit significant nonlinearity, with discrepancies in thermal conductivity estimates reaching up to 30%. The implications of this research highlight the necessity for precise thermal property assessments in the design of cryogenic systems, emphasizing their potential impact on energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. Ultimately, these findings provide essential insights for advancing cryogenic insulation technologies, supporting the broader transition to sustainable hydrogen energy solutions.