Patent attributes
A subsurface storage container for a volume of a small molecular gas. An outer casing is axially aligned with an inner liner to define an annulus filled with a non-hardening, incompressible liquid. Sealing assemblies respectively seal upper and lower ends of the annulus and an interior storage space within the inner liner. In some embodiments, the interior storage space stores hydrogen gas at a pressure of about 10,000 psi or higher, and the liquid in the annulus comprises propylene glycol at a selected concentration which is pre-charged at a pressure such as around 3,000 psi. The liquid transfers compressive force from the inner liner to the outer casing to facilitate motor vehicle refueling operations without the need for a compressor to provide the gas at required delivery pressures. The storage container may be arranged into a group or pod that is supported by a support member over a well bore.
