Hydrogen Storage Applications Research Articles

Intermetallic Compounds for Hydrogen Storage: Current Status and Future Perspectives.

Intermetallic compounds are an emerging class of materials with intriguing hydrogen activation and storage capabilities garnering attention for their application in low-temperature hydrogen storage and metal hydride batteries. However, none of the existing intermetallic compounds have met the gravimetric hydrogen storage capacity target of 5.5wt.%. Some A2B-type intermetallic compounds, like Mg2Ni, Mg2Co, and Mg2Fe, approach this target but require high temperatures for hydrogen desorption limiting their use in low-temperature hydrogen storage and automotive applications. Conversely, some intermetallic compounds like ZrV2 and LaNi5, exhibit hydrogen desorption at ambient conditions but with comparatively lower hydrogen storage capacities. This review article provides a comprehensive account of the different types of intermetallic compounds, their synthesis using different solidification-based and solid-state diffusion-based approaches, and their metallurgical and structural properties. It examines the complex interdependencies between the structural parameters of intermetallic compounds and hydrogen storage performance. A definitive but non-linear correlation is identified between void volume and gravimetric hydrogen storage capacities while lattice structure, evolution of lattice structure with hydrogen absorption, enthalpy of hydride formation, and hydrogen activation reactivities of intermetallic compounds are identified as critical parameters governing hydrogen storage performance.

Principles-based investigation of lithium-based halide perovskite X2LiAlH6 (X=K, Mn) for hydrogen storage, optoelectronic, and radiation shielding applications

Scientists devote their time and energy to studying and developing hydrogen storage devices to address the energy crisis and climate change. Because of this, investigations are conducted to reveal the optoelectronic, structural, bader charge, electronic charge density, and hydrogen storage properties of X2LiAlH6 (X = K, Mn) within the framework of density functional theory, and calculations of the structural characteristics were carried out utilizing local and nonlocal, and hybrid functionals. An additional onsite Coulomb parameter (GGA + U), which includes the Hubbard parameter, was used to apply the potential. Calculations based on the Kramer-Kroning principle were used to determine the dielectric function, refractive index, extinction coefficient, and energy loss function. The results indicate that K2LiAlH6 and Mn2LiAlH6 are highly suitable for hydrogen storage applications. The gravimetric ratios of hydrogen storage capacities for both investigated materials are 5.2 wt %, and 7.5 wt %, respectively. The interaction of the Mn-d, Li-s, K-s, and H-s/p orbitals was the cause of hybridization, according to the optoelectronic characteristics. Compound stability is indicated by the negative computed formation energy of the materials under investigation. The electronic charge density analysis showed a mixed-bond semiconductor with low ionicity and high covalence. In addition, the radiation shielding properties of Mn2LiAlH6 and K2LiAlH6 were investigated using Phy-X software, showing promising results in linear attenuation, half-value layer, and mean free path, particularly for Mn2LiAlH6 due to its higher atomic number. This groundbreaking study represents a pioneering computational exploration of X2LiAlH6, offering promising advancements for future research in hydrogen storage applications.

Zn2Mo3O8/ZnMo8O10/Mo8O23 nanocomposites; structural properties, synthesis and its emerging application in electrochemical hydrogen storage

Electrode materials based on zinc molybdenum oxides were designed by the saccharide-assisted sol-gel procedure for electrochemical hydrogen storage (EHS). By using different characterization methods to observe the formation of nanostructures, it was possible to determine that carbon texture was present on the nanostructured surfaces of zinc molybdenum oxides. The effects of employing various saccharides (mono, di, and poly saccharides) as carbon sources and fuel on the microstructure, electrochemical behaviors, and purity of synthesized samples were compared. The growth of nanocomposites including Zn2Mo3O8, ZnMo8O10, and Mo8O23 phases was facilitated by the saccharide. A charge-discharge method was used to build three-electrode cells and expose them to galvanostatic cycling. To ascertain the stability of electrode architectures, cycling performance at various rates was carried out. The samples' hydrogen storage capabilities were examined, and the sample generated with glucose showed an optimum capacity about 1017 mAhg−1 after 15th cycle.

Integrating Metal–Organic Frameworks and Polyamide 12 for Advanced Hydrogen Storage Through Powder Bed Fusion

This paper introduces a pioneering approach that combines ex situ synthesis with advanced manufacturing to develop ZIF-67-PA12 Nylon composites with mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs), with the goal of enhancing hydrogen storage systems. One method involves producing MOF-PA12 composite powders through an in situ process, which is then commonly used as a base powder for powder bed fusion (PBF) to fabricate various structures. However, developing the in situ MOF-PA12 matrix presents challenges, including limited spreadability and processability at higher MOF contents, as well as reduced porosity due to pore blockage by polymers, ultimately diminishing hydrogen storage capacity. To overcome these issues, PBF is employed to form PA12 powder into films, followed by the ex situ direct synthesis of ZIF-67 onto these substrates at loadings exceeding those typically used in conventional MMM composites. In this study, ZIF-67 mass loadings ranging from 2 to 30 wt.% were synthesized on both PA12 powder and printed film substrates, with loadings on printed PA12 films extended up to 60 wt.%. ZIF-67-PA12-60(f) demonstrated a hydrogen capacity of 0.56 wt.% and achieved 1.53 wt.% for ZIF-67-PA12-30(p); in comparison, PA12 exhibited a capacity of 0.38 wt.%. This was undertaken to explore a range of ZIF-67 Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) to assess their impact on the properties of the composite, particularly for hydrogen storage applications. Our results demonstrate that ex situ-synthesized ZIF-67-PA12 composite MMMs, which can be used as a final product for direct application and do not require the use of in situ pre-synthesized powder for the PBF process, not only retain significant hydrogen storage capacities, but also offer advantages in terms of repeatability, cost-efficiency, and ease of production. These findings highlight the potential of this innovative composite material as a practical and efficient solution for hydrogen storage, paving the way for advancements in energy storage technologies.

Computational Exploration of Adsorption-Based Hydrogen Storage in Mg-Alkoxide Functionalized Covalent-Organic Frameworks (COFs): Force-Field and Machine Learning Models.

Hydrogen is a clean-burning fuel that can be converted to other forms. of energy without generating any greenhouse gases. Currently, hydrogen is stored either by compression to high pressure (>700 bar) or cryogenic cooling to liquid form (<23 K). Therefore, it is essential to develop safe, reliable, and energy-efficient storage technology that can store hydrogen at lower pressures and temperatures. In this work, we systematically designed 2902 Mg-alkoxide-functionalized covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) and performed high-throughput (HT) computational screening for hydrogen storage applications at 111, 231, and 296 K. To accurately model the interaction between Mg-alkoxide sites and molecular hydrogen, we performed MP2 calculations to compute the hydrogen binding energy for different types of functionalized models, and the data were subsequently used to fit modified-Morse force field (FF) parameters. Using the developed FF models, we conducted HT grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations to compute hydrogen uptakes for both original and functionalized COFs. The generated data were subsequently used to evaluate the materials' gravimetric and volumetric storage performance at various temperatures (111, 231, and 296 K). Finally, we developed machine learning (ML) models to predict the hydrogen storage performance of functionalized structures based on the features of the original structures. The developed model showed excellent performance with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.061 wt % and 0.456 g/L for predicting the gravimetric and volumetric deliverable capacities, enabling a quick evaluation of structures in a hypothetical COF database. The screening results demonstrated that the Mg-alkoxide functionalization yields greater improvements in volumetric H2 storage capacities for COFs with smaller pores compared to those with larger (mesoporous) pores.

Reversible hydrogen storage in Y2C MXene under the influence of functional groups (F, Cl, OH)

The hydrogen storage potential of the bare MXenes Y2C and terminated Y2CT2, where T is O, OH, or F, were studied using density functional theory (DFT). Hydrogen adsorption and desorption behaviors are simulated by ab initio molecular dynamic simulations. The interaction of the H2-molecules on the Y2C-family was investigated within the projected density of states. Only bare Y2C and Y2C(OH)2 provided Kubas-type interactions. The calculated maximum capacity of H2 in bare Y2C can reached up to 5.041 wt%, whereas the reversible capacity of H2 was up to 2.036 wt%. In Y2C(OH)2, the maximum capacity of H2 storage is 3.477 wt% and the reversible capacity was 1.769 wt%. This indicated that Y2C and Y2C(OH)2 are practical candidates for hydrogen storage applications.

Computational insights of double perovskite Na2CaCdH6 hydride alloy for hydrogen storage applications: a DFT investigation

Prospective use of perovskite hydride materials in H storage a crucial element of clean energy systems has drawn a lot of attention. The structural, electrical, mechanical, thermodynamic, and H storage qualities of Na2CaCdH6 hydride alloys were examined in this work using DFT. According to the structural properties, Na2CaCdH6 has space group 225 (Fm3m), and optimized lattice parameters and volume of Na2CaCdH6 are 3.3485 Å and 593.764 Å3. The measured gravimetric H storage capacity of Na2CaCdH6 hydrides is 2.956 wt%. The hydrides under research are semiconductors, as indicated by the computed electronic characteristics. Elastic constants, Pugh’s ratio, modulus, Poisson’s ratio, anisotropic, and microhardness of Na2CaCdH6 are calculated under mechanical properties. The hydrides are dynamically stable, as indicated by the phonon dispersion curves, but mechanically stable according to the Born criterion for elastic constant (Cij). The Cauchy’s pressure (C″ = 7.836) revealed the ductile behavior. The electronic and mechanical characteristics imply that Na2CaCdH6 hydride can conduct electricity and is also mechanically stable. Our findings shed light on the possibilities of Na2CaCdH6 perovskite hydride material for H storage utilization.

The integral role of high‐entropy alloys in advancing solid‐state hydrogen storage

AbstractHigh‐entropy alloys (HEAs) have emerged as a groundbreaking class of materials poised to revolutionize solid‐state hydrogen storage technology. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate interplay between the unique compositional and structural attributes of HEAs and their remarkable hydrogen storage performance. By meticulously exploring the design strategies and synthesis techniques, encompassing experimental procedures, thermodynamic calculations, and machine learning approaches, this work illuminates the vast potential of HEAs in surmounting the challenges faced by conventional hydrogen storage materials. The review underscores the pivotal role of HEAs' diverse elemental landscape and phase dynamics in tailoring their hydrogen storage properties. It elucidates the complex mechanisms governing hydrogen absorption, diffusion, and desorption within these novel alloys, offering insights into enhancing their reversibility, cycling stability, and safety characteristics. Moreover, it highlights the transformative impact of advanced characterization techniques and computational modeling in unraveling the structure–property relationships and guiding the rational design of high‐performance HEAs for hydrogen storage applications. By bridging the gap between fundamental science and practical implementation, this review sets the stage for the development of next‐generation solid‐state hydrogen storage solutions. It identifies key research directions and strategies to accelerate the deployment of HEAs in hydrogen storage systems, including the optimization of synthesis routes, the integration of multiscale characterization, and the harnessing of data‐driven approaches. Ultimately, this comprehensive analysis serves as a roadmap for the scientific community, paving the way for the widespread adoption of HEAs as a disruptive technology in the pursuit of sustainable and efficient hydrogen storage for a clean energy future.

Controllable morphology of Pd nanostructures: from nanoparticles to nanofoams

Abstract Metallic nanofoams offer enhanced surface area and reduced density compared to their bulk counterparts while keeping intrinsic metallic properties. This combination makes nanofoams ideal for many applications, such as catalysis and battery. However, the synthesis of nanofoams is still challenging. This work introduces a non-complex synthesis method of Pd nanofoams employing a polar lipid structured as a sponge phase in water. The Pd nanostructures were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and X-Ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES) at Pd K edge techniques. The morphology of the nanostructure, from nanofoam to nanoparticle, is easily controlled by the presence of the polar lipid and the Pd salt used. The Pd nanostructures synthesized are fully oxidized, but the nanofoams reduce quickly (less than 5 minutes) to metallic Pd after H2 exposure at room temperature. The nanostructures were applied for hydrogen storage and Pd nanofoams achieved a remarkable gravimetric capacity of 0.76 wt.% at room temperature and 1 atm H2 pressure. DFT calculation showed that the changes in the morphology of Pd lead to great changes in the adsorption energy of hydrogen, thus allowing the improvement of the material for hydrogen storage applications through the method developed.

A novel feathery nanoporous magnesium synthesized by ethanol vapor assisted physical vapor deposition

Nanoporous magnesium exhibits outstanding performance in hydrogen absorption and desorption, rendering it a promising candidate for hydrogen storage applications. Nevertheless, there is limited discussion on the preparation method and growth mechanism of nano-porous magnesium. In this paper, a novel nanoporous magnesium material characterized by a feathery morphology was successfully synthesized at 823 K for 2 h under a vacuum pressure of 3 Pa, assisted by ethanol vapor through the physical vapor deposition method. The ethanol vapor was identified as the crucial factor in the synthesis of the feathery nanoporous magnesium. A vacancy-assisted formation mechanism is proposed to elucidate the creation of feathery nanoporous magnesium, whereby the ethanol vapor occupies specific positions within the magnesium vapor, resulting in the formation of nano and submicron pores.

Tuneable mesoporous silica material for hydrogen storage application via nano-confined clathrate hydrate construction

Safe storage and utilisation of hydrogen is an ongoing area of research, showing potential to enable hydrogen becoming an effective fuel, substituting current carbon-based sources. Hydrogen storage is associated with a high energy cost due to its low density and boiling point, which drives a high price. Clathrates (gas hydrates) are water-based (ice-like) structures incorporating small non-polar compounds such as H2 in cages formed by hydrogen bonded water molecules. Since only water is required to construct the cages, clathrates have been identified as a potential solution for safe storage of hydrogen. In bulk, pure hydrogen clathrate (H2O-H2) only forms in harsh conditions, but confined in nanospaces the properties of water are altered and hydrogen storage at mild pressure and temperature could become possible. Here, specifically a hydrophobic mesoporous silica is proposed as a host material, providing a suitable nano-confinement for ice-like clathrate hydrate. The hybrid silica material shows an important decrease of the pressure required for clathrate formation (approx. 20%) compared to the pure H2O-H2 system. In-situ inelastic neutron scattering (INS) and neutron diffraction (ND) provided unique insights into the interaction of hydrogen with the complex surface of the hybrid material and demonstrated the stability of nano-confined hydrogen clathrate hydrate.

Prediction of the optimal hydrogen storage in high entropy alloys

Hydrogen is the most abundant element in nature, characterized by its vast resources, recyclability, and environmentally friendly. Also, it can exist in various forms, such as gas, liquid, or solid, to meet different storage needs. In solid-state storage, the hydrogen storage alloys have received widespread attention due to hydrogen is stored in the form of hydrides. In recent years, high entropy alloys (HEAs), as a new type of novel alloy design concept have attracted a lot of attention in many fields including hydrogen storage due to their unique structures and excellent properties. Moreover, the freedom of element selection leads to various types of HEAs, further enhancing the potential for their application in hydrogen storage. This article focuses on the hydrogen storage performance of HEAs and provides a comprehensive overview of the hydrogen storage mechanism, thermodynamics, and kinetics. Additionally, we summarize and compare the hydrogen storage capacities of previously published HEAs and introduce two empirical parameters, valence electron concentration (VEC) and atomic size difference (δ), and their relationship with hydrogen storage capacity. By applying the K-means clustering algorithm, we conclude that the optimal hydrogen storage capacity of HEAs occurs when 4 <VEC < 6 and 5.3 % <δ < 7.5 %. This finding offers valuable guidance for the future design of efficient hydrogen storage HEAs.

Application of hydrogen storage in polygeneration microgrids: Case study of wind microgrid in India

Renewable energy based stand-alone microgrids are highly promising to supply electricity to isolated communities and remote locations. However, both buffer and long-term energy storage are essential due to the highly intermittent nature of renewable sources. By employing hydrogen energy storage with fuel cell and electrolyser in these microgrids, multiple outputs such as electricity, heat, water, and fuel, can be achieved. Design, development and optimization of efficient energy storage system remain a key challenge for the stand-alone microgrid technology. One must ensure that the microgrid satisfies the required electric load but is not over-designed, which is achieved by limiting the two performance parameters i.e., unmet electrical load fraction and excess electricity fraction. The capacities of wind turbine, electrolyser and hydrogen storage are optimized corresponding to the limiting values of unmet electrical load (fUL) and excess electricity (fEX) below 10 %. For the location of Ladakh which has rich availability of wind resource, the optimum size of microgrid is observed to be smallest as WT-20 kW, El-20 kW, H2-15 kg with fUL and fEX as 6.4 % and 8.9 % respectively. The Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) is also minimum as 0.89 $/kWh for the location of Ladakh. The distribution of wind resource has significant impact on the size of hydrogen storage. Uniform wind energy with higher velocity round the year reduces the capacity of hydrogen energy storage. Kanyakumari has non-uniform wind resource across different months of the year corresponding to which the capacity of H2 storage is as high as 370 kg.

Computational study of the mechanical stability, hydrogen storage and optoelectronic properties of new perovskite hydrides CsXH3 (X = Ca, Sr and Ba)

In this study, the physical properties of the perovskite hydrides CsXH3 (X = Ca, Sr and Ba) were explored using density functional theory (DFT) to assess their suitability for optoelectronic and hydrogen storage applications. The properties analyzed for these materials included hydrogen storage capacity, as well as structural, mechanical, electronic, and optical characteristics. These investigations were conducted using the GGA-PBE method within the ABINIT simulation code. Initially, the structural properties revealed that the lattice constants of the optimized unit cell structures of CsCaH3, CsSrH3 and CsBaH3 are 4.66, 4.80 and 5.25 Å, respectively. Additionally, the formation energy calculations proved that the selected materials are thermodynamically stable and can be synthesized. The mechanical stability of such hydrides has been confirmed by the results of the elastic constants that met the necessary stability criteria. Moreover, the hydrogen storage properties of the considered compounds revealed capacities of 1.71 wt%, 1.35 wt%, and 1.11 wt% for CsCaH3, CsSrH3 and CsBaH3, respectively, indicating their considerable potential as candidates for hydrogen storage applications. The electronic properties revealed that the three investigated materials exhibit semiconducting behavior with band gaps of 3.16, 2.84 and 2.18 eV for CsCaH3, CsSrH3 and CsBaH3, respectively. Additionally, various optical features including real ε1(ω) and imaginary ε2(ω) dielectric components, refractive index n(ω), absorption factor α(ω) were also investigated and implied that CsCaH3, CsSrH3 and CsBaH3 are suitable for optoelectronic devices. This study is the first to highlight the relevance of new materials CsCaH3, CsSrH3 and CsBaH3 for hydrogen storage and optoelectronic applications.

The structural, elastic, optoelectronic properties and hydrogen storage capability of lead-free hydrides XZrH3 (X: Mg/Ca/Sr/Ba) for hydrogen storage application: A DFT study

Perovskite hydrides are promising materials for hydrogen capacity application to achieve the US DOE on-board criteria. We have investigated novel perovskite hydrides XZrH3 (X: Mg/Ca/Sr/Ba) for H2 storage and transportation applications. In this study we investigates the physical properties of XZrH3 light materials for solid-state hydrogen storage application by incorporating the DFT framework with the CASTEP code. We have theoretically examined the structural, mechanical, electronic, optical, and hydrogen storage properties of these materials. The selected compounds were fully relaxed and optimized in the cubic phase space group Pm-3 m. Structural phase stability was confirmed through thermodynamic, and mechanical analyses. Mechanical properties, evaluated based on Poisson’s ratio, the Puagh’s ratio, and Cauchy pressure, indicate the ductile behavior with a preference for ionic bonding. The electronic structure analysis reveals the metallic behavior of these materials. Optical calculations were also performed to provide additional insights into the physical properties of H2 compounds. The gravimetric hydrogen storage capacities were calculated as 2.55, 2.25, 1.66, and 1.31 wt% for MgZrH3, CaZrH3, SrZrH3, And BaZrH3 hydrides respectively. The identified properties of XZrH3 suggest that these materials could significantly enhance hydrogen storage systems, with potential integration into existing energy technologies, offering a pathway toward more efficient and sustainable hydrogen-based solutions.

Effects of metals (X = Pd, Ag, Cd ) on structural, electronic, mechanical, thermoelectric and hydrogen storage properties of LiXH3 perovskites

Using the WIEN2K code, the hydrogen storage capabilities of lithium compositions like LiXH3 (X = Pd, Ag, Cd) hydrides are examined. Structural, electronic, mechanical, thermoelectric, and hydrogen storage properties of these hydrides are analyzed using first-principles simulations. Structural analysis of these compositions reveals that the hydrides are stable and belong to the cubic space group number (221 Pm-3 m). The thermodynamic stability of these hydrides are given in terms of formation energies and stability is checked through phonon dispersion curves. The purpose of the study is to calculate formation energy and breakdown temperature to determine stability of these hydrides. The metallic nature of all compositions are confirmed by band plots and density of states. The elastic properties are calculated to check the applicability of these compositions for applications involving hydrogen storage. The present paper represents the initial theoretical approach towards the future exploration of these materials for hydrogen storage applications.

Unlocking the potential of borophene nanoribbons for efficient hydrogen storage

This research explores the structural, electronic, optical, and hydrogen storage properties of borophene nanoribbons (BNRs) with armchair (ANR-B-H) and zigzag (ZNR B-H) edges. Computational simulations optimized these structures, revealing that 7ZNR-B-H has a superior binding energy. Chemical modifications, such as fluorine passivation and functionalization, influenced bond parameters and quantum properties. Bilayer BNRs showed increased stability and enhanced electrical conductivity. Our study demonstrated promising hydrogen storage capabilities, with passivated and functionalized BNRs achieving suitable adsorption energies and a significant gravimetric storage capacity of 20.32 wt%, exceeding DOE standards. NH2 functionalization notably improved adsorption energy, enhancing potential for efficient hydrogen storage. Changes in absorption spectra post-H2 adsorption further highlight BNRs’ potential for hydrogen storage applications. These findings provide valuable insights into BNRs, paving the way for their use in electronic devices and hydrogen storage systems.

Systematic study of first-row transition metals chlorides as reaction accelerators for Mg/ MgH2 for hydrogen storage application

Mg has been proposed as a possible hydrogen storage material. However, Mg necessarily requires the addition of a suitable material with catalytic activity to improve hydriding and dehydriding reactions. Some chlorides of transition metals have been tested as improvers of hydriding/dehydriding reactions in Mg/MgH2. However, experimental preparation and tested conditions are dissimilar among different published reports. A systematic study of first-row transition metal chlorides as additives is presented here to understand the various factors affecting the hydriding/dehydriding reactions in Mg/MgH2 prepared and tested under the same conditions. The added transition metal chlorides (TMClx, x = oxidation state) include metals in oxidation states +4, +3, and +2 whenever commercially available. Additional chlorides, such as ZrCl4 and AlCl3, were included for comparison. The mixtures of Mg-TMClx were produced employing cryogenic ball milled and characterized by i) temperature-programmed hydriding and dehydriding, ii) X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy at Mg, transition metals, and chlorine 2p edges, iii) X-ray diffraction, and iv) scanning electron microscope. The best additives are VCl3>TiCl4>NiCl2>AlCl3. In contrast, the worst additives among the first-row transition metal chlorides were CrCl2, ZnCl2, and CuCl2. They do not improve at all the hydrogen uptake kinetics of pure Mg. Chemical state, side reactions, crystal structure, and morphology were discussed as factors affecting the behavior of the hydriding and dehydriding reactions. A complex interrelationship among these factors is observed. However, the electronegativity of the transition metal and an interaction of the type Mg-TM-Cl, are proposed as the main factors for the observed improvement of hydriding and dehydriding reactions.

Advanced computational screening of X2CaH4 (X = Rb and Cs) for hydrogen storage applications

Utilizing cutting-edge computational screening methods, this study explores the hydrogen storage capacity of two complex metal hydrides, Cs2CaH4 and Rb2CaH4. We perform a thorough analysis of their structural, electrical, optical, and hydrogen storage properties using density functional theory (DFT). Within the I4/mmm space group, both compounds display stable tetragonal crystal structures, and their thermodynamic stability is confirmed by their formation energies. Notably, compared to Rb2CaH4, Cs2CaH4 is more stable. With band gaps of 2.99 eV for Cs2CaH4 and 3.28 eV for Rb2CaH4, the electronic properties show insulating behavior, which is beneficial for reducing electronic interference during hydrogen absorption and desorption. A comparative research reveals that the potential gravimetric hydrogen storage capacities of Cs2CaH4 (1.28%) and Rb2CaH4 (1.86%) are comparable to, albeit marginally less than, those of materials that are frequently explored, such as lithium borohydride. With their individual absorption and reflectivity peaks, the optical characteristics offer more information about how they interact with electromagnetic radiation, information that may be useful for improving their performance in real-world applications. Our results imply that Cs2CaH4and Rb2CaH4 have considerable potential for use in practical hydrogen storage systems, especially in situations where stability and minimal electronic interference are essential. Subsequent research endeavors may concentrate on enhancing the hydrogen storage capacity of these materials, so rendering their incorporation into existing hydrogen storage methods more feasible.

Agarose derived carbon based nanocomposite for hydrogen storage at near-ambient conditions

Nanocomposites of high surface area adsorption materials and nanosized transition metals have emerged as a promising strategy for hydrogen storage applications. However, their potential use in both transport and stationary applications depends on reaching the ultimate storage capacity at near-ambient conditions along with scalable synthesis protocols. Herein, a direct and simple thermal decomposition technique is reported to synthesize carbon-based nanocomposite, where nickel nanoparticles are dispersed in a porous carbon matrix. It is also demonstrated that the storage capacity can be enhanced at near-ambient conditions by effectively engineering the microstructure and synergistically combining the ‘physisorption’ and ‘spillover’ mechanism. The structure, composition and morphology of the samples were investigated using X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Sorption-desorption isotherms were obtained to study the hydrogen storage capacity at a moderate H2 pressure of 20 bar. The nanocomposite showed a promising storage capacity of 0.73 wt% at 298 K with reversible cyclability. It is shown that the uniform dispersion of catalytic nanoparticles leads to an increase in the spillover efficiency, which further helps in the enhancement of hydrogen storage capacity by a factor of 6.5 over pure carbon.