6 - Graphene/graphene oxide–based nanomaterials for hydrogen production and storage applications

Abstract

In the present chapter, graphene-based nanomaterials are explained for hydrogen production and storage. It is a well-known fact that hydrogen is the most convenient solution for the serious energy and environmental problems in the world. To obtain environmentally friendly and sustainable energy, hydrogen is considered as a strong energy carrier in future due to its abundance and nontoxic effects. Life with hydrogen energy instead of fossil fuels can be provided with not only its cost-effective and clean production but also its safe storage. These two necessities are two of the most common research areas in the world. Hydrogen production can be performed photocatalytically by means of photocatalyst candidate which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. Today, nanomaterials are favored candidates in the area of photocatalysis and storable materials for gas. In this aspect, the development of new nanosized materials gains great importance. In 21st century, graphene has become one of the most common materials especially as a photocatalyst in hydrogen production and as an adsorber in hydrogen storage. For both of the hydrogen production and storage, graphene is one of the most preferred and promising nanomaterials due to its remarkable thermal, mechanical, and physical properties. It can be used as a photocatalyst material for water-splitting reaction due to its high electron mobility. In addition, graphene-based nanomaterials are preferred in hydrogen-storage applications because of their porous and high surface area. It is seen that nanomaterials such as graphene and its derivative forms have a big role as an alternative energy of the future and for an eco-friendly world.