(Digital Presentation) Catalytic Nanoparticles and Sustainable Carbon-Based Supports for Efficient Hydrogen Production for Advancing Hydrogen Energy
Authors: Abdel-Fattah Tarek M , Biehler Erik 
Published: December 2024

One promising approach to hydrogen storage is the use of hydrogen feedstock materials such as sodium borohydride (NaBH4) [1-19]. Sodium borohydride is particularly noteworthy due to its high hydrogen content, containing 10.8% hydrogen by weight. This high hydrogen density makes it an attractive candidate for efficient storage. NaBH4 can release hydrogen gas when it reacts with water, a process that, although slow, can be enhanced through the use of catalysts. Catalysts are crucial in increasing the rate of hydrogen production, making the process more viable for practical applications.

This comprehensive study aims to explore the catalytic efficacy of metal nanoparticles when paired with environmentally sustainable catalyst support materials derived from fused carbon microspheres and graphene-like materials [1-19]. The choice of support materials is critical, as they not only stabilize the metal nanoparticles but also enhance their catalytic performance. These support materials, sourced from renewable origins, are combined with a spectrum of metal nanoparticles, including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and copper nanoparticles. The synergy between the nanoparticles and the support materials is expected to catalyze the expedited release of hydrogen from sodium borohydride, thereby contributing to the streamlined and efficient production of this clean and abundant energy source.

One of the challenges in using nanoparticles as catalysts is their tendency to agglomerate into larger particles over time. This agglomeration significantly diminishes their catalytic efficiency, as the surface area available for catalytic reactions is reduced. To address this issue, recent research within our team has focused on incorporating carbon-based materials as support structures for nanoparticles. These carbon materials facilitate better nanoparticle dispersion, preventing agglomeration and maintaining high catalytic activity.

Composite materials that combine silver, gold, platinum, palladium, and copper nanoparticles with carbon nanotubes have demonstrated competitive catalytic activity in the hydrolysis of NaBH4 [1-19]. The introduction of carbon nanotubes as a support material enhances the dispersion of nanoparticles and improves their stability, leading to more efficient hydrogen production [1-19].

In conclusion, the integration of metal nanoparticles with sustainable carbon-based support materials offers a promising pathway for advancing hydrogen production technologies.

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