Self-supported Cu(OH)2@Co2CO3(OH)2 core–shell nanowire array as a robust catalyst for ammonia-borane hydrolysis

Abstract

High hydrogen content and long-term stability in aqueous solutions make ammonia-borane (AB) a promising hydrogen-storage material. It is highly attractive but still challenging to develop efficient catalysts for real-time and controllable hydrogen release from AB solution under mild conditions. Herein, we describe the use of a three-dimensional hierarchical Cu(OH)2@Co2CO3(OH)2 core–shell nanowire array on copper foam (denoted as Cu(OH)2@Co2CO3(OH)2/CF) as a highly efficient catalyst for hydrolytic dehydrogenation of AB. The Cu(OH)2@Co2CO3(OH)2/CF works as an on/off switch for on-demand hydrogen generation with a low activation energy of 44.3 KJ mol−1 and a turnover frequency of 39.72 mol(H2)/mol(cat.)/min. It also maintains activity and integration after long-term usage.