Storage of gaseous and liquid hydrogen in tanks is the most mature storage technology and is used in today's commercial hydrogen industry. However, the widespread usage of hydrogen by the general public requires additional safety testing of this storage method.

The long-term goal of Sandia's Hydrogen Pressure Vessel Testing Program is to gain acceptance of onboard compressed hydrogen storage for use in hydrogen-powered vehicles. To meet this goal, Sandia is conducting a comparative study between hydrogen and other fuels that are widely accepted, such as gasoline, natural gas, and propane. The data from this study will be used in developed a predictive, validated model for use in determining the response of composite cylinders in accident scenarios. These models may in turn be used by regulatory agencies and insurance companies.