Complex performance of novel CoNiMnB electrodeposits in alkaline borohydride solutions

Abstract

The complex performance of newly synthesized CoNiMnB electrodeposits in base-stabilized sodium borohydride solutions was examined. The rate of hydrogen generation due to borohydride hydrolysis was determined at different temperatures. Activation energy of approximately 33 kJ/mol was estimated, which is lower than the values reported for other catalysts. At electrochemical conditions, there is a competition between borohydride hydrolysis and electrooxidation reactions. The electrooxidation of borohydride takes place with low overpotentials at relatively high current densities. The long-term discharge at galvanostatic conditions as well as possibilities for partial storage of generated hydrogen indicates potentials for application of studied electrodeposits as anode material in direct borohydride fuel cells (DBFC).