A review of cryogenic quasi-steady liquid-vapor phase change: Theories, models, and state-of-the-art applications

The recent developments in deep space exploration and renewable energy transition involve many critical topics on cryogenic fluids, including cryogenic propellant management, optimal energy conservation, and large-scale energy storage and transportation. Efficient long-term storage technologies with minimum boil-off loss are essential for improving the energy storage efficiency. Appropriate modeling of the cryogenic quasi-steady liquid vapor phase change has become a bottleneck for the design of cryogenic storage systems. This work comprehensively reviewed the characteristics of cryogenic quasi-steady liquidvapor phase change processes, as well as the derivations and validation of popular phase change models. The performances of the numerical models in literature were evaluated in aspects of calculation speed, precision, and robustness. State-of-the-art experimental and numerical studies on cryogenic quasi-steady phase change in self-pressurization, thermal stratification, rollover, and thin film evaporation processes were reviewed. Recent advances in the optimization of the numerical models were summarized, which were still insufficient for long-term simulations of cryogenic storage tanks. Furthermore, mechanism research of cryogenic quasi-steady phase change was far from reaching a consensus. New simulation methods, as well as advanced experimental technologies, should be employed to deepen the understanding of quasi-steady cryogenic interfacial heat and mass transport. This review is conducive to promoting the design and application of cryogenic storage systems in the aerospace, liquefied natural gas, and hydrogen industries.

Automated summary

This review discusses the importance of cryogenic fluids in deep space exploration and renewable energy transition. It comprehensively reviews and evaluates critical topics on cryogenic fluids, including cryogenic propellant management, optimal energy conservation, and large-scale energy storage and transportation. The review provides detailed analysis and evaluation of the characteristics of cryogenic quasi-steady liquid-vapor phase change processes, as well as the derivation and validation of popular phase change models.