A transient, two-dimensional model to predict the heat and mass transfer of elliptical metal hydride tubes and tube banks is presented. Results are obtained by solving the set of governing equations using suitable numerical methods. Results obtained on elliptical hydride tube banks are compared with standard circular tube banks. It is shown that compared to a circular tube of same internal hydride volume, the use of elliptical hydride tube can provide more compact reactors with lower ratio of fan work to heat transfer. Hence they may be suitable for applications such as storage of hydrogen for automobiles, etc. It is also seen that for elliptical tubes there is noticeable difference in temperatures and concentrations between the major and minor axes. The model presented and the results obtained may be used for optimal design of elliptical hydride tube bank reactors. (C) 2009 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.